Plant-fungus interface: The role of surface structures in plant resistance and susceptibility to pathogenic fungi

Fungal phytopathogens are the cause of most plant diseases. Notably, they inflict damage on many economically important crops. Plant-fungus interaction commences with the contact between the plant and spore surfaces. Aboveground plant parts are covered with substances, which are usually characterized by hydrophobicity and sometimes toxicity. Moreover, specific spatial architecture of plant surface contributes to the creation of an unfavorable microenvironment for most pathogens. However, some pathogens, for example fungi, have successfully adapted to such particular conditions. Features of the outermost plant layers, which act as the physical and chemical barriers, as well as active structural reorganization of the plant cell wall will be reviewed in this article in relation to the fungal pathogen weaponry and strategies aimed at breaking through the plant defense.

► Phylloplane poses a complex barrier protection against pathogen attack. ► Properties of plant surface contribute to both passive and active forms of plant defense strategy against pathogen. ► For some pathogens, plant surface protective components are key signals for infection. ► Features of fungal spore typically enable the invasion of specific host tissues/organs. ► The course of infection is highly dependent on the early plant-pathogen interactions at the infection front.