Common Antigenic Determinants as a Possible Regulator of Host-Pathogen Compatibility

Abstract

Studies on common antigens between plant host and pathogen indicate that the nature and cellular location of these antigens in several host-pathogen systems may differ. What is the function of common antigens in these systems? We cannot answer this question in regard to plant diseases now, but the regular occurrence of common antigens in those host-parasite combinations which have been examined suggests that these antigens effect the plant host range and specificity of bacterial and fungal pathogens.