Grapevine

Trees' own beneficial microbiome could lead to discovery of new treatments to fight citrus greening disease

Citrus trees showing natural tolerance to citrus greening disease host bacteria that produce novel antimicrobials that can be used to fight off the disease, our recent study shows. We found the trees at an organic farm in Clermont, Florida.

Citrus greening disease—known more formally as Huanglongbing, or HLB, is caused by the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus. It is spread by an insect called the Asian citrus psyllid. There is no known cure for the disease.

We are Florida-based researchers who study sustainable farming practices, a discipline also known as agroecology. Our team has isolated these antimicrobial compounds in the lab and is now working to test them with the goal of producing an effective treatment for HLB.

Why it matters

HLB has dealt a massive blow to Florida's iconic citrus industry.

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Trees' own beneficial microbiome could lead to discovery of new treatments to fight citrus greening disease

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Trees' own beneficial microbiome could lead to discovery of new treatments to fight citrus greening disease

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