The association of both cell-surface PRRs (Pattern Recognition Receptors) and intracellular receptor NLRs (Nucleotide-Binding Leucine-Rich Repeat) in engineered plants have the potential to activate strong defenses against a broad range of pathogens. Here, we describe the identification, characterization, and in planta functional analysis of a novel truncated NLR (TNx) gene from the wild species Arachis stenosperma (AsTIR19), with a protein structure lacking the C-terminal LRR (Leucine Rich Repeat) domain involved in pathogen perception. Overexpression of AsTIR19 in tobacco plants led to a significant reduction in infection caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, with a further reduction in pyramid lines containing an expansin-like B gene (AdEXLB8) potentially involved in defense priming. Transcription analysis of tobacco transgenic lines revealed induction of hormone defense pathways (SA; JA-ET) and PRs (Pathogenesis-Related proteins) production. The strong upregulation of the respiratory burst oxidase homolog D (RbohD) gene in the pyramid lines suggests its central role in mediating immune responses in plants co-expressing the two transgenes, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) production enhanced by AdEXLB8 cues leading to stronger defense response. Here, we demonstrate that the association of potential priming elicitors and truncated NLRs can produce a synergistic effect on fungal resistance, constituting a promising strategy for improved, non-specific resistance to plant pathogens.
Agriculture is one of the most important activities for the economic, social and technological development of society. However, plant diseases affect efforts to increase crop production and productivity, endangering economies and food security (Nelson, 2019). Diseases caused by bacteria are an important and widespread constraint, occurring in almost all crops, including vegetables, pulses, cereals, ornamentals, fruit and forages (Sundin et al., 2016). Bacterial diseases are difficult to identify and to control, and few pesticides are available for their effective management (Borkar & Yumlembam, 2017).Plant disease management employs several strategies involving chemical and biological control of pathogens; it may also involve the use of resistant or tolerant genotypes manipulated by both conventional and molecular breeding. Although several strategies
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