Cytological analysis of infection process and the first defence responses induced in winter rye (Secale cereale L.) seedlings inoculated with Microdochium nivale

Pink snow mould caused by Microdochium nivale can lead to serious yield loss in many winter cereals and turf grasses. The study examined the infection mechanism in four inbred lines and one cultivar of rye (Secale cereale L.) with different sensitivities to this pathogenic fungus. Fungus development was analyzed at the early stages of the infection, up to the 13th day after inoculation, in hardened and non-hardened seedlings, using light/fluorescence microscopy. The cytological analysis was supplemented with a spectrophotometrical assay of the phenolics. Significantly higher phenolic content was revealed in the leaves of the lines more resistant to M. nivale, as compared to those which are more sensitive.

► The pathogenic infection of Microdochium nivale on rye was examined by fluorescence microscopy.
► Four rye inbred lines and cv. ‘Stach’ of different resistance level to this pathogen were under the study.
► Cytological analysis of fungus development was conducted on hardened and non-hardened seedlings.
► Spectrophotometrical assay revealed higher content of phenolics in leaves of more resistant lines.