Comparative transcriptomic analysis reveals infection strategies of Botrytis deweyae on Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua

Ming Liu1, Wanli Ma1,2, Tiantian Guo1

  • 1College of Biological and Food Engineering, Chongqing Sanxia University of Science and Technology, Chongqing, China.

Iscience
|June 30, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Botrytis deweyae infects Polygonatum cyrtonema leaves through direct penetration or stomatal invasion. Glyceride metabolism and MAPK signaling, including Hog1, are key to its pathogenesis and osmotic stress response.

Area of Science:

  • Plant Pathology
  • Mycology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Botrytis deweyae is a pathogen causing gray mold disease on Polygonatum cyrtonema.
  • The infection mechanisms of B. deweyae on P. cyrtonema remain largely uncharacterized.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the infection mechanisms of Botrytis deweyae on Polygonatum cyrtonema.
  • To identify key molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of B. deweyae.

Main Methods:

  • Optical, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used to observe infection structures.
  • Transcriptome analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed genes during infection.

Main Results:

  • B. deweyae invades P. cyrtonema leaves via direct penetration (using gelatinous substances and infection cushions) or stomatal invasion.
  • Glyceride metabolism, oxidoreductase activity, and MAPK signal transduction pathways were significantly enriched and facilitate infection.
  • Host-derived osmotic pressure activates the MAPK pathway in B. deweyae, leading to antioxidant enzyme expression for osmotic regulation, with Hog1 playing a potential role.

Conclusions:

  • This study provides insights into the pathogenesis of B. deweyae on P. cyrtonema.
  • Understanding these mechanisms can aid in developing targeted strategies for gray mold management.