We aim to develop strategies to protect crops by understanding these disease mechanisms. Our primary research centers on phytopathogenic fungi , particularly their interactions with host plants and their microbiome. We utilize model organisms like Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana benthamiana to enhance our understanding of the plant immune system. Our major focus had been so far the biotrophic interaction between the maize pathogen Ustilago maydis and maize, focusing on secreted effector proteins that suppress host immunity and manipulate metabolism. Our research also employs imaging techniques such as thermography, chlorophyll fluorescence, and hyperspectral analysis to monitor host-pathogen interactions across various scales, aiming to develop innovative
disease prevention and control strategies.