Transcription factors in Induced Systemic Resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana

Abstract

Understanding the molecular mechanism of how plants regulate their defence mechanism is very important. This to better understand, regulate and grow agricultural crops. Recently, plant defence has been extensively studied; revealing two very important transcription factors involved; MYC2 and MYB72. Both seem to have significant importance in induced systemic resistance (ISR). MYC2 has been previously shown to be important in the regulation of transcription of genes against wounding and herbivory, so the question arises how this gene is also important in ISR and might there be a molecular link between the resistance against pathogens, herbivory and ISR. The balance between transcription of genes against wounding and against pathogens is regulated through the balance of MYC2 and ERF1. The expression patterns of multiple homolog of ERF1 and of MYC2 were studied, as well as another related MYB transcription factor. Also the target promoter sequences were studied. Transcription of ERF1 is regulated by EIN3, a close homolog of EIL3. EIL3 is known to interact with MYB72. Here we investigated the predicted expression patterns to establish whether it is plausible that MYB72 regulates the action of MYC2 through action of ERF1. Based on the analysis of existing data sets, it seems very plausible the interaction between MYB72, EIL3 and possibly MYB10 regulates the transcription of ERF1 to influence the balance of transcription of genes against pathogens or wounding. However, extensive further research is necessary.