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Asadi M, Millar AA. Review: Plant microRNAs in pathogen defense: A panacea or a piece of the puzzle? PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 341:111993. [PMID: 38266718 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.111993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Plant microRNAs (miRNAs) control key agronomic traits that are associated with their conserved role(s) in development. However, despite a multitude of studies, the utility of miRNAs in plant-pathogen resistance remains less certain. Reviewing the literature identifies three general classes of miRNAs regarding plant pathogen defense. Firstly, a number of evolutionary dynamic 22 nucleotide miRNA families that repress large numbers of plant immunity genes, either directly, or through triggering the biogenesis of secondary siRNAs. However, understanding of their role in defense and of their manipulation to enhance pathogen resistance are still lacking. Secondly, highly conserved miRNAs that indirectly impact disease resistance through their targets that are primarily regulating development or hormone signaling. Any alteration of these miRNAs usually results in pleiotropic impacts, which may alter disease resistance in some plant species, and against some pathogens. Thirdly, are the comparatively diverse and evolutionary dynamic set of non-conserved miRNAs, some of which contribute to pathogen resistance, but whose narrow evolutionary presence will likely restrict their utility. Therefore, reflecting the diverse and evolving nature of plant-pathogen interactions, a complex interplay of plant miRNAs with pathogen responses exists. Any miRNA-based solution for pathogen resistance will likely be highly specific, rather than a general panacea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Asadi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran; Department of Agricultural Science, Technical and Vocational University (TVU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Anthony A Millar
- Division of Plant Science, Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; ARC Training Centre for Accelerated Future Crop development, ANU, Canberra, Australia.
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Mierziak J, Wojtasik W. Epigenetic weapons of plants against fungal pathogens. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 24:175. [PMID: 38443788 PMCID: PMC10916060 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-04829-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
In the natural environment, plants face constant exposure to biotic stress caused by fungal attacks. The plant's response to various biotic stresses relies heavily on its ability to rapidly adjust the transcriptome. External signals are transmitted to the nucleus, leading to activation of transcription factors that subsequently enhance the expression of specific defense-related genes. Epigenetic mechanisms, including histone modifications and DNA methylation, which are closely linked to chromatin states, regulate gene expression associated with defense against biotic stress. Additionally, chromatin remodelers and non-coding RNA play a significant role in plant defense against stressors. These molecular modifications enable plants to exhibit enhanced resistance and productivity under diverse environmental conditions. Epigenetic mechanisms also contribute to stress-induced environmental epigenetic memory and priming in plants, enabling them to recall past molecular experiences and utilize this stored information for adaptation to new conditions. In the arms race between fungi and plants, a significant aspect is the cross-kingdom RNAi mechanism, whereby sRNAs can traverse organismal boundaries. Fungi utilize sRNA as an effector molecule to silence plant resistance genes, while plants transport sRNA, primarily through extracellular vesicles, to pathogens in order to suppress virulence-related genes. In this review, we summarize contemporary knowledge on epigenetic mechanisms of plant defense against attack by pathogenic fungi. The role of epigenetic mechanisms during plant-fungus symbiotic interactions is also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Mierziak
- Department of Genetic Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Przybyszewskiego 63, Wroclaw, 51-148, Poland
| | - Wioleta Wojtasik
- Department of Genetic Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Przybyszewskiego 63, Wroclaw, 51-148, Poland.
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Ding T, Li W, Li F, Ren M, Wang W. microRNAs: Key Regulators in Plant Responses to Abiotic and Biotic Stresses via Endogenous and Cross-Kingdom Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1154. [PMID: 38256227 PMCID: PMC10816238 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Dramatic shifts in global climate have intensified abiotic and biotic stress faced by plants. Plant microRNAs (miRNAs)-20-24 nucleotide non-coding RNA molecules-form a key regulatory system of plant gene expression; playing crucial roles in plant growth; development; and defense against abiotic and biotic stress. Moreover, they participate in cross-kingdom communication. This communication encompasses interactions with other plants, microorganisms, and insect species, collectively exerting a profound influence on the agronomic traits of crops. This article comprehensively reviews the biosynthesis of plant miRNAs and explores their impact on plant growth, development, and stress resistance through endogenous, non-transboundary mechanisms. Furthermore, this review delves into the cross-kingdom regulatory effects of plant miRNAs on plants, microorganisms, and pests. It proceeds to specifically discuss the design and modification strategies for artificial miRNAs (amiRNAs), as well as the protection and transport of miRNAs by exosome-like nanovesicles (ELNVs), expanding the potential applications of plant miRNAs in crop breeding. Finally, the current limitations associated with harnessing plant miRNAs are addressed, and the utilization of synthetic biology is proposed to facilitate the heterologous expression and large-scale production of miRNAs. This novel approach suggests a plant-based solution to address future biosafety concerns in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianze Ding
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Wenkang Li
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Fuguang Li
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Maozhi Ren
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
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Hu G, Ge X, Wang P, Chen A, Li F, Wu J. The cotton miR171a-SCL6 module mediates plant resistance through regulating GhPR1 expression. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2023; 202:107995. [PMID: 37666042 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2023.107995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Plants have developed intricate defense mechanisms in response to fluctuating environmental cues, including the use of microRNA (miRNA) as post-transcriptional regulators. However, the specific mechanisms through which miRNA contributes to disease resistance remain largely elusive. While the miR171-SCLs have been investigated in an eclectic array of plants, there has been a notable scarcity of research specifically focused on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). In our previous miRNA-sequencing analysis, we found that ghr-miR171a displayed a differential response to infections by Verticillium dahliae. In this study, we further investigated the function of the miR171a-SCL6 module in cotton during V. dahliae infection. The ghr-miR171a was confirmed to direct the cleavage of GhSCL6 mRNA in the post-transcriptional process, as evidenced by 5' RLM-RACE, β-glucuronidase (GUS) histochemical staining and enzyme activity assay. Interestingly, we found that overexpressing ghr-miR171a reduced cotton plants' resistance to V. dahliae, while suppressing ghr-miR171a increased the plants' defense capacity. The GhSCL6 protein, when fused with green fluorescent protein (GFP), localizes in the cell nucleus, indicating its potential role in gene regulation. This was further corroborated by yeast two-hybrid assays, which verified GhSCL6's transcriptional activation ability. Through quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR), luciferase (LUC) fluorescence, and yeast one-hybrid assays, we found that GhSCL6 binds to the GT-box element of the GhPR1 promoter, activating its expression and thereby enhancing plant disease resistance. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the cotton miR171a-SCL6 module regulates Verticillium wilt resistance in plants through the post-transcriptional process. This insight may offer new perspectives for disease resistance strategies in cotton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Hu
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China; State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Xiaoyang Ge
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
| | - Peng Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
| | - Aimin Chen
- The Key Laboratory for the Creation of Cotton Varieties in the Northwest, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Join Hope Seeds Co. Ltd, Changji, 831100, China
| | - Fuguang Li
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China.
| | - Jiahe Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
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Zhu Y, Zhao M, Li T, Wang L, Liao C, Liu D, Zhang H, Zhao Y, Liu L, Ge X, Li B. Interactions between Verticillium dahliae and cotton: pathogenic mechanism and cotton resistance mechanism to Verticillium wilt. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1174281. [PMID: 37152175 PMCID: PMC10161258 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1174281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Cotton is widely grown in many countries around the world due to the huge economic value of the total natural fiber. Verticillium wilt, caused by the soil-borne pathogen Verticillium dahliae, is the most devastating disease that led to extensive yield losses and fiber quality reduction in cotton crops. Developing resistant cotton varieties through genetic engineering is an effective, economical, and durable strategy to control Verticillium wilt. However, there are few resistance gene resources in the currently planted cotton varieties, which has brought great challenges and difficulties for breeding through genetic engineering. Further revealing the molecular mechanism between V. dahliae and cotton interaction is crucial to discovering genes related to disease resistance. In this review, we elaborated on the pathogenic mechanism of V. dahliae and the resistance mechanism of cotton to Verticillium wilt. V. dahliae has evolved complex mechanisms to achieve pathogenicity in cotton, mainly including five aspects: (1) germination and growth of microsclerotia; (2) infection and successful colonization; (3) adaptation to the nutrient-deficient environment and competition of nutrients; (4) suppression and manipulation of cotton immune responses; (5) rapid reproduction and secretion of toxins. Cotton has evolved multiple physiological and biochemical responses to cope with V. dahliae infection, including modification of tissue structures, accumulation of antifungal substances, homeostasis of reactive oxygen species (ROS), induction of Ca2+ signaling, the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, hormone signaling, and PAMPs/effectors-triggered immune response (PTI/ETI). This review will provide an important reference for the breeding of new cotton germplasm resistant to Verticillium wilt through genetic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Zhu
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
- *Correspondence: Yutao Zhu, ; Bingbing Li,
| | - Mei Zhao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Taotao Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Lianzhe Wang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Chunli Liao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Dongxiao Liu
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Huamin Zhang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Yanpeng Zhao
- Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lisen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China
| | - Xiaoyang Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, China
| | - Bingbing Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
- *Correspondence: Yutao Zhu, ; Bingbing Li,
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