Molecular Genetics Commons^™

Using Fluorescent Microscopy To Follow Mitochondrial Inheritance Through Tagged Alternative Oxidase In Sporisorium Reilianum., Luke Schroeder

College of Arts & Sciences Senior Honors Theses

Sporisorium reilianum is a dimorphic fungus that inhabits and infects a host corn plant (Zea mays). In order for the fungus to reproduce sexually, compatible haploid mating types must form a dikaryon that goes on to cause infection in the host. This infection causes leaf chlorosis and gall formation, while ultimately allowing for the dispersal of fungal teliospores in the later stages of infection. To grow, the fungus requires energy production in the form of ATP from its mitochondria. As a countermeasure to infection, host plants release harsh reactive oxygen species that may damage DNA, lead to apoptosis, …