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The Structure, Evolution, and Expression Patterns Analysis Reveals the bHLH Members Associated with Powdery Mildew
Xiaokang Fan1,2, Xiaoling Tang1,2, Yiying Lu1,2
1College of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Danzhou 571737, China.
Researchers identified 204 basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) genes in rubber trees, finding 11 responsive to powdery mildew. Three key genes were pinpointed for their roles in disease resistance, offering targets for breeding.
Area of Science:
- Plant Science
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors are vital for plant growth and stress tolerance.
- Powdery mildew (Erysiphe quercicola) poses a significant threat to rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) cultivation.
- Understanding bHLH genes in rubber trees is crucial for developing disease-resistant varieties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize the bHLH transcription factor family in the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) variety CATAS73397.
- To investigate the role of HbbHLH genes in response to powdery mildew infection.
- To identify potential candidate genes for enhancing disease resistance in rubber trees.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide identification and classification of HbbHLH genes.
- Analysis of RNA-sequencing data to identify infection-responsive genes.
- Phylogenetic analysis, promoter analysis, and quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) validation.
Main Results:
- 204 HbbHLH transcription factors were identified and classified into 15 subfamilies, with expansion driven by whole-genome duplication.
- 11 HbbHLH genes showed differential expression upon powdery mildew infection.
- HbbHLH87 and HbbHLH162-2 were downregulated, while HbbHLH25 was upregulated; these genes responded to methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and salicylic acid (SA) treatments.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates the HbbHLH gene family in rubber trees and highlights specific genes involved in the plant's immune response to powdery mildew.
- Identified genes, particularly HbbHLH25, HbbHLH87, and HbbHLH162-2, are implicated in jasmonic acid and salicylic acid signaling pathways.
- These findings provide valuable genetic resources and targets for breeding disease-resistant rubber tree varieties.
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06:09An Easy and Flexible Inoculation Method for Accurately Assessing Powdery Mildew-Infection Phenotypes of Arabidopsis and Other Plants
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