The role of mating genes in the speciation processes of smut fungi

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The evolution of highly specific plant parasites, such as the smut fungi, is closely linked to the evolution of their host plants. Studies of Ustilago maydis - the model organism of basidiomycetous plant parasites - have revealed a genetic link between mating and infection in smut fungi. The two mating loci regulate the development of the dicaryon and the infection process. Therefore, the evolution of parasite/host interaction, host specificity, and speciation are closer linked in smut fungi than in other systems. This study will concentrate on the evolution of the genes involved in the early processes of mating and analyse the evolutionary impact on specialisation of different species. The analysis of phylogeny, substitution rates, and structural evolution of genes related to mating and infection will provide new insight into the evolution of smut fungi. Thus we will contribute to the understanding of coevolution of plant parasites and their hosts.