Decorin and biglycan are characterized by a distinct expression pattern in the normal rat kidney, whereas the presence of their endocytosis receptor protein correlates with the expression of both proteoglycans. Decorin is almost completely absent in the normal mesangium. Both proteoglycans become up-regulated in various models of renal disease. The mesangial accumulation of decorin in the anti-Thy-1 glomerulonephritis that is observed in spite of the only slightly enhanced mRNA expression could result from decreased decorin turnover and/or increased mesangial retention.

The expression of decorin could be observed for the first time in epithelial cells. Decorin, but not biglycan, appears as an early phase reactant in the muscularis mucosae in accordance with its putative role during angiogenesis and the prevention of apoptosis.

Gibberella pulicaris is a causal agent of potato dry rot. The fungus is able to metabolize the potato phytoalexin rishitin, a trait which is possibly associated with virulence against potato tubers. Metabolism of the plant defence compound on agar medium is completed within 24 h. In contrast, incubations in various liquid media and buffers highly reduced degradation of rishitin with a maximal reduction of substrate down to 30% of the initial concentration within five days. The structurally related sesquiterpene lubimin was degraded completely within 12 hr in all tested liquid media. Our data suggest that rishitin metabolism is under an unusual genetic control requiring growth on a solid surface for efficient metabolism.