Fungal infection increases volatile release

What is it about?

Autumns of 2011 and 2013 in Estonia were exceptionally humid and there was a massive spread of oak powdery mildew (Erysiphe alphitoides) on oaks (Quercus robur) with virtually every leaf on every tree being infected. The plant physiology research team at the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMÜ) demonstrated that powdery mildew infection in oak is associated with infection-dependent reductions in photosynthesis, and isoprene emission and with major increases in stress-induced emissions.

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Why is it important?

Global warming at northern latitudes is expected not only increase temperature, but also result in greater air humidity that collectively can led to more favourable conditions for growth of pathogenic fungi.This is the first study demonstrating that the degree of infection by pathogenic fungi is quantitatively associated with the release of stress-induced volatiles, and suggests that future warmer and more humid conditions are associated with greater release of stress volatiles.