Cellulase Activity in Isolates of Verticillium dahliae Differing in Aggressiveness

Abstract

Ten Verticillium dahliae isolates from different Galician locations were classified by degree of aggressiveness. High variability exists independent of locality of origin. Two isolates differing in aggressiveness were evaluated for cellulase production on several carbon sources. V. dahliae is able to degrade crystalline cellulose (Avicel) and, therefore, has the three enzymes necessary for its hydrolysis. The two isolates behaved similarly in the presence of soluble cellulose, but the most aggressive isolate had greater β-1,4-glucosidase (EC. 3.2.1.21) and endo-β-1,4-glucanase (EC. 3.2.1.4) activity. The less aggressive isolate needed more time to degrade crystalline cellulose. Cellulases may not be the determining factor for aggressiveness and symptom expression; however, they may play a role in penetration.