Changes in Alfalfa Stem Conductance Induced by Corynebacterium insidiosum Toxin

A toxin involved in bacterial wilt of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) has been isolated from cultures of the pathogen, Corynebacterium insidiosum, as well as from diseased plants (S. M. Ries and G. A. Strobel. 1972. Physiological Plant Pathology 2: 133-142). The influence of this toxin, a glycopeptide with a molecular weight of 5 x 10(6), on the water relations of alfalfa was examined. It was found that very small amounts of the toxin (2 mug) significantly reduced stem conductance through 15-cm long stems. This decrease in stem conductance caused by the toxin best explains the rapid decrease in transpiration and stomatal conductance and the resultant wilting after alfalfa cuttings have been in 200 mug ml(-1) toxin for 2 hours. Membrane damage resulting in water leakage was ruled out as a factor in the wilting during the 2-hour period. It is postulated that the toxin acts by interfering with water movement through pit membranes.