Early signalling mechanisms underlying receptor kinase-mediated immunity in plants

Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs), which are single transmembrane proteins belonging to the receptor-like kinase (RLK) and receptor-like protein (RLP) super families, sense microbe- and host-derived molecular patterns to activate immune responses in plants. PRRs associate with co-receptors, scaffold proteins and receptor-like cytoplasmic kinases (RLCKs) to form immune receptor complexes at the cell surface, allowing activation of cellular responses upon perception of extracellular ligands. Recent advances have uncovered new mechanisms by which these immune receptor complexes are regulated at the levels of composition, stability and activity. It has become clear that RLCKs are central components directly linking PRRs to multiple downstream signalling modules. Furthermore, new studies have provided important insights into the regulation of reactive oxygen species, mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascades and heterotrimeric G proteins, which has not only deepened our understanding of immunity, but also expanded our view of transmembrane signalling in general. This article is part of the theme issue 'Biotic signalling sheds light on smart pest management'.