Robatzek Team

Prof. Dr. Silke Robatzek

Genetics of Host–Microbe Interactions

Our research explores the genetic architecture and molecular mechanisms that shape host–microbe interactions. We address four central questions:

How do hosts mount effective immune responses to pathogens?
How do pathogens adapt to, manipulate, or evade host defence systems?
How does the host microbiome influence disease outcomes?

By integrating genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, and multi-omics approaches, we uncover fundamental principles that govern interactions across diverse hosts and microbial species and provide avenues for translation into protection strategies.

Research topics

How do hosts mount immune responses to pathogens?

Plant immunity is based on genetically encoded immune receptors and complex downstream signalling networks that vary between (sub)species. We investigate how immune receptor repertoires, their regulation, and their genetic diversity determine immunity or susceptibility. We examine how host physiological status, including drought or nutrient stress, influences immune competence and disease progression.

Using both model systems (e.g. Arabidopsis and tobacco) and crops such as olive and grapevine, we identify and functionally characterize host genes involved in pathogen perception and immune activation. We further explore translational strategies, including the transfer of immune receptor systems from resistant species into susceptible crops to enhance immunity.

How do pathogens adapt to, manipulate, or evade host defence systems?

Bacterial pathogens such as Xylella fastidiosa, Xanthomonas spp., and Pseudomonas syringae successfully colonize diverse hosts despite the extensive variability of plant immune systems. We study how pathogens adapt to specific host environments, including specialized tissues such as the vasculature, reprogram host gene expression during colonization, and suppress host immune signalling. Our particular focus lies on adaptive traits such as lifestyle transitions between planktonic growth and biofilm formation, secretion systems, extracellular vesicle release, and small RNA-mediated regulatory mechanisms. Transcriptomic and functional analyses enable us to dissect pathogen strategies at molecular resolution, reveal pathogen virulence genes and identify host target genes.

How does the host microbiome modulate disease outcomes?

The host-associated microbiome represents an additional layer of defence against infectious pathogens. We investigate mechanisms of inter-bacterial antagonism, microbiome-mediated immune activation, and community dynamics that influence susceptibility or immunity. By profiling large microbiome collections combined with proteomics and transcriptomics, we identify novel antibacterial molecules and beneficial strains. These insights guide the rational design of protective synthetic microbiome communities aimed at preventing diseases such as Xylella fastidiosa infection.