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Zheng L, Zhang J, He H, Meng Z, Wang Y, Guo S, Liang C. Anthocyanin gene enrichment in the distal region of cotton chromosome A07: mechanisms of reproductive organ coloration. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1381071. [PMID: 38699538 PMCID: PMC11063239 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1381071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The biosynthesis of secondary metabolites like anthocyanins is often governed by metabolic gene clusters (MGCs) in the plant ancestral genome. However, the existence of gene clusters specifically regulating anthocyanin accumulation in certain organs is not well understood. Methods and results In this study, we identify MGCs linked to the coloration of cotton reproductive organs, such as petals, spots, and fibers. Through genetic analysis and map-based cloning, we pinpointed key genes on chromosome A07, such as PCC/GhTT19, which is involved in anthocyanin transport, and GbBM and GhTT2-3A, which are associated with the regulation of anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin biosynthesis. Our results demonstrate the coordinated control of anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin pathways, highlighting the evolutionary significance of MGCs in plant adaptation. The conservation of these clusters in cotton chromosome A07 across species underscores their importance in reproductive development and color variation. Our study sheds light on the complex biosynthesis and transport mechanisms for plant pigments, emphasizing the role of transcription factors and transport proteins in pigment accumulation. Discussion This research offers insights into the genetic basis of color variation in cotton reproductive organs and the potential of MGCs to enhance our comprehension of plant secondary metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuchang Zheng
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jilong Zhang
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haiyan He
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhigang Meng
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Sandui Guo
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chengzhen Liang
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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2
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Hendrickson H, Islam M, Wabo GF, Mafu S. Biochemical analysis of the TPS-a subfamily in Medicago truncatula. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1349009. [PMID: 38425791 PMCID: PMC10902008 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1349009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Terpenes are important mediators of plant chemical response to environmental cues. Here, we describe the genome-wide identification and biochemical characterization of TPS-a members in Medicago truncatula, a model legume crop. Genome mining identified thirty-nine full-length terpene synthases with a significant number predicted to produce monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. Biochemical characterization of the TPS-a subfamily associated with sesquiterpene biosynthesis revealed such compounds, that exhibit substantial biological activity in other plants. Gene expression analysis using qPCR and the Medicago gene atlas illustrated distinct tissue and time-based variation in expression in leaves and roots. Together our work establishes the gene-to-metabolite relationships for sesquiterpene synthases in M. truncatula. Understanding the biosynthetic capacity is a foundational step to defining the ecological roles of this important family of compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Hendrickson
- Plant Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Monirul Islam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Life Science Laboratories, Amherst, MA, United States
| | | | - Sibongile Mafu
- Plant Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Life Science Laboratories, Amherst, MA, United States
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3
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Li J, Fan T, Zhang Y, Xing Y, Chen M, Wang Y, Gao J, Zhang N, Tian J, Zhao C, Zhen S, Fu J, Mu X, Tang J, Niu H, Gou M. Characterization and fine mapping of a maize lesion mimic mutant (Les8) with enhanced resistance to Curvularia leaf spot and southern leaf blight. TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2023; 137:7. [PMID: 38093101 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-023-04511-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGE A novel light-dependent dominant lesion mimic mutant with enhanced multiple disease resistance was physiologically, biochemically, and genetically characterized; the causal gene was fine mapped to a 909 kb interval containing 38 genes. Identification of genes that confer multiple disease resistance (MDR) is crucial for the improvement of maize disease resistance. However, very limited genes are identified as MDR genes in maize. In this study, we characterized a dominant disease lesion mimics 8 (Les8) mutant that had chlorotic lesions on the leaves and showed enhanced resistance to both curvularia leaf spot and southern leaf blight. Major agronomic traits were not obviously altered, while decreased chlorophyll content was observed in the mutant, and the genetic effect of the Les8 mutation was stable in different genetic backgrounds. By BSR-seq analysis and map-based cloning, the LES8 gene was mapped into a 909 kb region containing 38 candidate genes on chromosome 9 wherein no lesion mimic or disease-resistance genes were previously reported. Using transcriptomics analysis, we found that genes involved in defense responses and secondary metabolite biosynthesis were enriched in the significantly up-regulated genes, while genes involved in photosynthesis and carbohydrate-related pathways were enriched in the significantly down-regulated genes in Les8. In addition, there was an overaccumulation of jasmonic acid and lignin but not salicylic acid in Les8. Taken together, this study revealed candidate genes and potential mechanism underlying Les8-conferred MDR in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiankun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Tianyuan Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Ye Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Mengyao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Na Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Jinjun Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Chenyang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Sihan Zhen
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Junjie Fu
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiaohuan Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Jihua Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Hongbin Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
| | - Mingyue Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China.
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Köllner TG, Gershenzon J, Peters RJ, Zerbe P, Schmelz EA. The terpene synthase gene family in maize - a clarification of existing community nomenclature. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:744. [PMID: 38057721 PMCID: PMC10699003 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09856-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias G Köllner
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, D-07745, Jena, Germany.
| | - Jonathan Gershenzon
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, D-07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Reuben J Peters
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Philipp Zerbe
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Eric A Schmelz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0380, USA
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5
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Wu M, Northen TR, Ding Y. Stressing the importance of plant specialized metabolites: omics-based approaches for discovering specialized metabolism in plant stress responses. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1272363. [PMID: 38023861 PMCID: PMC10663375 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1272363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Plants produce a diverse range of specialized metabolites that play pivotal roles in mediating environmental interactions and stress adaptation. These unique chemical compounds also hold significant agricultural, medicinal, and industrial values. Despite the expanding knowledge of their functions in plant stress interactions, understanding the intricate biosynthetic pathways of these natural products remains challenging due to gene and pathway redundancy, multifunctionality of proteins, and the activity of enzymes with broad substrate specificity. In the past decade, substantial progress in genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics has made the exploration of plant specialized metabolism more feasible than ever before. Notably, recent advances in integrative multi-omics and computational approaches, along with other technologies, are accelerating the discovery of plant specialized metabolism. In this review, we present a summary of the recent progress in the discovery of plant stress-related specialized metabolites. Emphasis is placed on the application of advanced omics-based approaches and other techniques in studying plant stress-related specialized metabolism. Additionally, we discuss the high-throughput methods for gene functional characterization. These advances hold great promise for harnessing the potential of specialized metabolites to enhance plant stress resilience in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxi Wu
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Trent R. Northen
- Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Yezhang Ding
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
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6
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Thoenen L, Giroud C, Kreuzer M, Waelchli J, Gfeller V, Deslandes-Hérold G, Mateo P, Robert CAM, Ahrens CH, Rubio-Somoza I, Bruggmann R, Erb M, Schlaeppi K. Bacterial tolerance to host-exuded specialized metabolites structures the maize root microbiome. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2310134120. [PMID: 37878725 PMCID: PMC10622871 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2310134120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Plants exude specialized metabolites from their roots, and these compounds are known to structure the root microbiome. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. We established a representative collection of maize root bacteria and tested their tolerance against benzoxazinoids (BXs), the dominant specialized and bioactive metabolites in the root exudates of maize plants. In vitro experiments revealed that BXs inhibited bacterial growth in a strain- and compound-dependent manner. Tolerance against these selective antimicrobial compounds depended on bacterial cell wall structure. Further, we found that native root bacteria isolated from maize tolerated the BXs better compared to nonhost Arabidopsis bacteria. This finding suggests the adaptation of the root bacteria to the specialized metabolites of their host plant. Bacterial tolerance to 6-methoxy-benzoxazolin-2-one (MBOA), the most abundant and selective antimicrobial metabolite in the maize rhizosphere, correlated significantly with the abundance of these bacteria on BX-exuding maize roots. Thus, strain-dependent tolerance to BXs largely explained the abundance pattern of bacteria on maize roots. Abundant bacteria generally tolerated MBOA, while low abundant root microbiome members were sensitive to this compound. Our findings reveal that tolerance to plant specialized metabolites is an important competence determinant for root colonization. We propose that bacterial tolerance to root-derived antimicrobial compounds is an underlying mechanism determining the structure of host-specific microbial communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Thoenen
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern3013, Switzerland
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Basel4056, Switzerland
| | - Caitlin Giroud
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Basel4056, Switzerland
| | - Marco Kreuzer
- Interfaculty Bioinformatics Unit, University of Bern, Bern3012, Switzerland
| | - Jan Waelchli
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Basel4056, Switzerland
| | - Valentin Gfeller
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern3013, Switzerland
| | | | - Pierre Mateo
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern3013, Switzerland
| | | | - Christian H. Ahrens
- Method Development and Analytics, Group Molecular Ecology, Agroscope, Zürich8046, Switzerland
| | - Ignacio Rubio-Somoza
- Molecular Reprogramming and Evolution Lab, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics, Barcelona08193, Spain
| | - Rémy Bruggmann
- Interfaculty Bioinformatics Unit, University of Bern, Bern3012, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Erb
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern3013, Switzerland
| | - Klaus Schlaeppi
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern3013, Switzerland
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Basel4056, Switzerland
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7
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Yactayo-Chang JP, Block AK. The impact of climate change on maize chemical defenses. Biochem J 2023; 480:1285-1298. [PMID: 37622733 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is increasingly affecting agriculture, both at the levels of crops themselves, and by altering the distribution and damage caused by insect or microbial pests. As global food security depends on the reliable production of major crops such as maize (Zea mays), it is vital that appropriate steps are taken to mitigate these negative impacts. To do this a clear understanding of what the impacts are and how they occur is needed. This review focuses on the impact of climate change on the production and effectiveness of maize chemical defenses, including volatile organic compounds, terpenoid phytoalexins, benzoxazinoids, phenolics, and flavonoids. Drought, flooding, heat stress, and elevated concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide, all impact the production of maize chemical defenses, in a compound and tissue-specific manner. Furthermore, changes in stomatal conductance and altered soil conditions caused by climate change can impact environmental dispersal and effectiveness certain chemicals. This can alter both defensive barrier formation and multitrophic interactions. The production of defense chemicals is controlled by stress signaling networks. The use of similar networks to co-ordinate the response to abiotic and biotic stress can lead to complex integration of these networks in response to the combinatorial stresses that are likely to occur in a changing climate. The impact of multiple stressors on maize chemical defenses can therefore be different from the sum of the responses to individual stressors and challenging to predict. Much work remains to effectively leverage these protective chemicals in climate-resilient maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P Yactayo-Chang
- United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Chemistry Research Unit, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
| | - Anna K Block
- United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Chemistry Research Unit, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
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8
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Wang Y, Zou J, Li J, Kong F, Xu L, Xu D, Li J, Yang H, Zhang L, Li T, Fan H. Identification and functional analysis of ZmDLS associated with the response to biotic stress in maize. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1162826. [PMID: 37546249 PMCID: PMC10399692 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1162826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Terpenes are the main class of secondary metabolites produced in response to pest and germ attacks. In maize (Zea mays L.), they are the essential components of the herbivore-induced plant volatile mixture, which functioned as a direct or indirect defense against pest and germ attacks. In this study, 43 maize terpene synthase gene (ZmTPS) family members were systematically identified and analyzed through the whole genomes of maize. Nine genes, including Zm00001d032230, Zm00001d045054, Zm00001d024486, Zm00001d004279, Zm00001d002351, Zm00001d002350, Zm00001d053916, Zm00001d015053, and Zm00001d015054, were isolated for their differential expression pattern in leaves after corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) bite. Additionally, six genes (Zm00001d045054, Zm00001d024486, Zm00001d002351, Zm00001d002350, Zm00001d015053, and Zm00001d015054) were significantly upregulated in response to corn borer bite. Among them, Zm00001d045054 was cloned. Heterologous expression and enzyme activity assays revealed that Zm00001d045054 functioned as d-limonene synthase. It was renamed ZmDLS. Further analysis demonstrated that its expression was upregulated in response to corn borer bites and Fusarium graminearum attacks. The mutant of ZmDLS downregulated the expressions of Zm00001d024486, Zm00001d002351, Zm00001d002350, Zm00001d015053, and Zm00001d015054. It was more attractive to corn borer bites and more susceptible to F. graminearum infection. The yeast one-hybrid assay and dual-luciferase assay showed that ZmMYB76 and ZmMYB101 could upregulate the expression of ZmDLS by binding to the promoter region. This study may provide a theoretical basis for the functional analysis and transcriptional regulation of terpene synthase genes in crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Wang
- School of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Zou
- School of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Jiali Li
- School of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Fanna Kong
- Tobacco Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Lina Xu
- Institute of Plant Protection and Agro-products Safety, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Dafeng Xu
- Tobacco Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Tobacco Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Huaying Yang
- Tobacco Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Tobacco Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Tingchun Li
- Tobacco Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Honghong Fan
- School of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
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9
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Chen X, Nowicki M, Wadl PA, Zhang C, Köllner TG, Payá‐Milans M, Huff ML, Staton ME, Chen F, Trigiano RN. Chemical profile and analysis of biosynthetic pathways and genes of volatile terpenes in Pityopsis ruthii, a rare and endangered flowering plant. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287524. [PMID: 37352235 PMCID: PMC10289357 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
It is critical to gather biological information about rare and endangered plants to incorporate into conservation efforts. The secondary metabolism of Pityopsis ruthii, an endangered flowering plant that only occurs along limited sections of two rivers (Ocoee and Hiwassee) in Tennessee, USA was studied. Our long-term goal is to understand the mechanisms behind P. ruthii's adaptation to restricted areas in Tennessee. Here, we profiled the secondary metabolites, specifically in flowers, with a focus on terpenes, aiming to uncover the genomic and molecular basis of terpene biosynthesis in P. ruthii flowers using transcriptomic and biochemical approaches. By comparative profiling of the nonpolar portion of metabolites from various tissues, P. ruthii flowers were rich in terpenes, which included 4 monoterpenes and 10 sesquiterpenes. These terpenes were emitted from flowers as volatiles with monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes accounting for almost 68% and 32% of total emission of terpenes, respectively. These findings suggested that floral terpenes play important roles for the biology and adaptation of P. ruthii to its limited range. To investigate the biosynthesis of floral terpenes, transcriptome data for flowers were produced and analyzed. Genes involved in the terpene biosynthetic pathway were identified and their relative expressions determined. Using this approach, 67 putative terpene synthase (TPS) contigs were detected. TPSs in general are critical for terpene biosynthesis. Seven full-length TPS genes encoding putative monoterpene and sesquiterpene synthases were cloned and functionally characterized. Three catalyzed the biosynthesis of sesquiterpenes and four catalyzed the biosynthesis of monoterpenes. In conclusion, P. ruthii plants employ multiple TPS genes for the biosynthesis of a mixture of floral monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, which probably play roles in chemical defense and attracting insect pollinators alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlu Chen
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Marcin Nowicki
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Phillip A. Wadl
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, U. S. Vegetable Laboratory, Charleston, SC, United States of America
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Tobias G. Köllner
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Miriam Payá‐Milans
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Matthew L. Huff
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Margaret E. Staton
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Robert N. Trigiano
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
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10
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Murphy KM, Dowd T, Khalil A, Char SN, Yang B, Endelman BJ, Shih PM, Topp C, Schmelz EA, Zerbe P. A dolabralexin-deficient mutant provides insight into specialized diterpenoid metabolism in maize. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 192:1338-1358. [PMID: 36896653 PMCID: PMC10231366 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Two major groups of specialized metabolites in maize (Zea mays), termed kauralexins and dolabralexins, serve as known or predicted diterpenoid defenses against pathogens, herbivores, and other environmental stressors. To consider the physiological roles of the recently discovered dolabralexin pathway, we examined dolabralexin structural diversity, tissue-specificity, and stress-elicited production in a defined biosynthetic pathway mutant. Metabolomics analyses support a larger number of dolabralexin pathway products than previously known. We identified dolabradienol as a previously undetected pathway metabolite and characterized its enzymatic production. Transcript and metabolite profiling showed that dolabralexin biosynthesis and accumulation predominantly occur in primary roots and show quantitative variation across genetically diverse inbred lines. Generation and analysis of CRISPR-Cas9-derived loss-of-function Kaurene Synthase-Like 4 (Zmksl4) mutants demonstrated dolabralexin production deficiency, thus supporting ZmKSL4 as the diterpene synthase responsible for the conversion of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate precursors into dolabradiene and downstream pathway products. Zmksl4 mutants further display altered root-to-shoot ratios and root architecture in response to water deficit. Collectively, these results demonstrate dolabralexin biosynthesis via ZmKSL4 as a committed pathway node biochemically separating kauralexin and dolabralexin metabolism, and suggest an interactive role of maize dolabralexins in plant vigor during abiotic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Murphy
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Tyler Dowd
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
| | - Ahmed Khalil
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Si Nian Char
- Division of Plant Science and Technology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Bing Yang
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
- Division of Plant Science and Technology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Benjamin J Endelman
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Patrick M Shih
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | | | - Eric A Schmelz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Philipp Zerbe
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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11
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Advances of Apetala2/Ethylene Response Factors in Regulating Development and Stress Response in Maize. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065416. [PMID: 36982510 PMCID: PMC10049130 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Apetala2/ethylene response factor (AP2/ERF) is one of the largest families of transcription factors, regulating growth, development, and stress response in plants. Several studies have been conducted to clarify their roles in Arabidopsis and rice. However, less research has been carried out on maize. In this review, we systematically identified the AP2/ERFs in the maize genome and summarized the research progress related to AP2/ERF genes. The potential roles were predicted from rice homologs based on phylogenetic and collinear analysis. The putative regulatory interactions mediated by maize AP2/ERFs were discovered according to integrated data sources, implying that they involved complex networks in biological activities. This will facilitate the functional assignment of AP2/ERFs and their applications in breeding strategy.
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12
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Saldivar EV, Ding Y, Poretsky E, Bird S, Block AK, Huffaker A, Schmelz EA. Maize Terpene Synthase 8 (ZmTPS8) Contributes to a Complex Blend of Fungal-Elicited Antibiotics. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:1111. [PMID: 36903970 PMCID: PMC10005556 DOI: 10.3390/plants12051111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In maize (Zea mays), fungal-elicited immune responses include the accumulation of terpene synthase (TPS) and cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP) enzymes resulting in complex antibiotic arrays of sesquiterpenoids and diterpenoids, including α/β-selinene derivatives, zealexins, kauralexins and dolabralexins. To uncover additional antibiotic families, we conducted metabolic profiling of elicited stem tissues in mapping populations, which included B73 × M162W recombinant inbred lines and the Goodman diversity panel. Five candidate sesquiterpenoids associated with a chromosome 1 locus spanning the location of ZmTPS27 and ZmTPS8. Heterologous enzyme co-expression studies of ZmTPS27 in Nicotiana benthamiana resulted in geraniol production while ZmTPS8 yielded α-copaene, δ-cadinene and sesquiterpene alcohols consistent with epi-cubebol, cubebol, copan-3-ol and copaborneol matching the association mapping efforts. ZmTPS8 is an established multiproduct α-copaene synthase; however, ZmTPS8-derived sesquiterpene alcohols are rarely encountered in maize tissues. A genome wide association study further linked an unknown sesquiterpene acid to ZmTPS8 and combined ZmTPS8-ZmCYP71Z19 heterologous enzyme co-expression studies yielded the same product. To consider defensive roles for ZmTPS8, in vitro bioassays with cubebol demonstrated significant antifungal activity against both Fusarium graminearum and Aspergillus parasiticus. As a genetically variable biochemical trait, ZmTPS8 contributes to the cocktail of terpenoid antibiotics present following complex interactions between wounding and fungal elicitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan V. Saldivar
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Plant Biology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yezhang Ding
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Elly Poretsky
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Skylar Bird
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Anna K. Block
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Alisa Huffaker
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Eric A. Schmelz
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
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13
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Werck-Reichhart D. Promiscuity, a Driver of Plant Cytochrome P450 Evolution? Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020394. [PMID: 36830762 PMCID: PMC9953472 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant cytochrome P450 monooxygenases were long considered to be highly substrate-specific, regioselective and stereoselective enzymes, in this respect differing from their animal counterparts. The functional data that have recently accumulated clearly counter this initial dogma. Highly promiscuous P450 enzymes have now been reported, mainly in terpenoid pathways with functions in plant adaptation, but also some very versatile xenobiotic/herbicide metabolizers. An overlap and predictable interference between endogenous and herbicide metabolism are starting to emerge. Both substrate preference and permissiveness vary between plant P450 families, with high promiscuity seemingly favoring retention of gene duplicates and evolutionary blooms. Yet significant promiscuity can also be observed in the families under high negative selection and with essential functions, usually enhanced after gene duplication. The strategies so far implemented, to systematically explore P450 catalytic capacity, are described and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danièle Werck-Reichhart
- Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes du Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
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14
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Zhou H, Hua J, Li H, Song X, Luo S. Structurally diverse specialized metabolites of maize and their extensive biological functions. J Cell Physiol 2023. [PMID: 36745523 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Maize originated in southern Mexico and various hybrid varieties have been bred during domestication. All maize tissues are rich in specialized plant metabolites (SPMs), which allow the plants to resist the stresses of herbivores and pathogens or environmental factors. To date, a total of 95 terpenoids, 91 phenolics, 31 alkaloids, and 6 other types of compounds have been identified from maize. Certain volatile sesquiterpenes released by maize plants attract the natural enemies of maize herbivores and provide an indirect defensive function. Kauralexins and dolabralexins are the most abundant diterpenoids in maize and are known to regulate and stabilize the maize rhizosphere microbial community. Benzoxazinoids and benzoxazolinones are the main alkaloids in maize and are found in maize plants at the highest concentrations at the seedling stage. These two kinds of alkaloids directly resist herbivory and pathogenic infection. Phenolics enhance the cross-links between maize cell walls. Meanwhile, SPMs also regulate plant-plant relationships. In conclusion, SPMs in maize show a large diversity of chemical structures and broad-spectrum biological activities. We use these to provide ideas and information to enable the improvement of maize resistances through breeding and to promote the rapid development of the maize industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiwen Zhou
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Juan Hua
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Hongdi Li
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xinyu Song
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Shihong Luo
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
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15
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Fu J, Wang L, Pei W, Yan J, He L, Ma B, Wang C, Zhu C, Chen G, Shen Q, Wang Q. ZmEREB92 interacts with ZmMYC2 to activate maize terpenoid phytoalexin biosynthesis upon Fusarium graminearum infection through jasmonic acid/ethylene signaling. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2023; 237:1302-1319. [PMID: 36319608 DOI: 10.1111/nph.18590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Maize (Zea mays) terpenoid phytoalexins (MTPs) induced by multiple fungi display extensive antimicrobial activities, yet how maize precisely regulates MTP accumulation upon pathogen infection remains elusive. In this study, pretreatment with jasmonic acid (JA)/ethylene (ET)-related inhibitors significantly reduced Fusarium graminearum-induced MTP accumulation and resulted in enhanced susceptibility to F. graminearum, indicating the involvement of JA/ET in MTP regulatory network. ZmEREB92 positively regulated MTP biosynthetic gene (MBG) expression by correlation analysis. Knockout of ZmEREB92 significantly compromised maize resistance to F. graminearum with delayed induction of MBGs and attenuated MTP accumulation. The activation of ZmEREB92 on MBGs is dependent on the interaction with ZmMYC2, which directly binds to MBG promoters. ZmJAZ14 interacts both with ZmEREB92 and with ZmMYC2 in a competitive manner to negatively regulate MBG expression. Altogether, our findings illustrate the regulatory mechanism for JA/ET-mediated MTP accumulation upon F. graminearum infection with the involvement of ZmEREB92, ZmMYC2, and ZmJAZ14, which provides new insights into maize disease responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingye Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Liping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Wenzheng Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Jie Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Linqian He
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Ben Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Chang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Chenying Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, Matsudo, Chiba, 271-8510, Japan
| | - Qinqin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
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16
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Feng M, Chen C, Qu-Bie J, Qu-Bie A, Bao X, Cui Q, Yan X, Li Y, Liu Y, Zhang S. Metabolome and transcriptome associated analysis of sesquiterpenoid metabolism in Nardostachys jatamansi. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:1041321. [PMID: 36523614 PMCID: PMC9746346 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1041321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nardostachys jatamansi, an extremely endangered valuable plant of the alpine Himalayas, can synthesize specific sesquiterpenoids with multiple effective therapies and is widely exploited for the preparation of drugs, cosmetics and even religious functions (e.g., well-known spikenard). However, how accumulation trend of the sesquiterpenoids in tissues and the molecular mechanisms underlying the production of the active ingredients are not well understood. METHODS The single-molecule real-time (SMRT) and RNA-seq transcriptome sequencing were combined to analyse the roots, rhizomes, leaves, flowers and anthocaulus of N. jatamansi. The phytochemical analysis was performed by gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry (GC‒MS) and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). RESULTS A high-quality full-length reference transcriptome with 26,503 unigenes was generated for the first time. For volatile components, a total of sixty-five compounds were successfully identified, including fifty sesquiterpenoids. Their accumulation levels in five tissues were significantly varied, and most of the sesquiterpenoids were mainly enriched in roots and rhizomes. In addition, five aromatic compounds were only detected in flowers, which may help the plant attract insects for pollination. For nonvolatile ingredients, nardosinone-type sesquiterpenoids (nardosinone, kanshone C, and isonardosinone) were detected almost exclusively in roots and rhizomes. The candidate genes associated with sesquiterpenoid biosynthesis were identified by transcriptome analysis. Consistently, it was found that most biosynthesis genes were abundantly expressed in the roots and rhizomes according to the functional enrichment and expression patterns results. There was a positive correlation between the expression profile of genes related to the biosynthesis and the accumulation level of sesquiterpenoids in tissues. Gene family function analysis identified 28 NjTPSs and 43 NjCYPs that may be involved in the biosynthesis of the corresponding sesquiterpenoids. Furthermore, gene family functional analysis and gene coexpression network analysis revealed 28 NjTPSs and 43 NjCYPs associated with nardosinone-type sesquiterpenoid biosynthesis. CONCLUSION Our research results reveal the framework of sesquiterpenoids accumulation and biosynthesis in plant tissues and provide valuable support for further studies to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of sesquiterpenoid regulation and accumulation in N. jatamansi and will also contribute to the comprehensive utilization of this alpine plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingkang Feng
- Tibetan Plateau Ethnic Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Qiang-Yi Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Technology and Engineering Laboratory, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Tibetan Plateau Ethnic Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Qiang-Yi Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Technology and Engineering Laboratory, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Junzhang Qu-Bie
- Tibetan Plateau Ethnic Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Qiang-Yi Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Technology and Engineering Laboratory, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Axiang Qu-Bie
- Tibetan Plateau Ethnic Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Qiang-Yi Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Technology and Engineering Laboratory, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoming Bao
- Analysis and Application Center, Shimadzu (China) Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China
| | - Qi Cui
- Tibetan Plateau Ethnic Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Qiang-Yi Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Technology and Engineering Laboratory, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinjia Yan
- Tibetan Plateau Ethnic Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Qiang-Yi Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Technology and Engineering Laboratory, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Li
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Tibetan Plateau Ethnic Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Qiang-Yi Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Technology and Engineering Laboratory, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shaoshan Zhang
- Tibetan Plateau Ethnic Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Qiang-Yi Medicinal Resources Protection and Utilization Technology and Engineering Laboratory, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
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17
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Tang HV, Berryman DL, Mendoza J, Yactayo-Chang JP, Li QB, Christensen SA, Hunter CT, Best N, Soubeyrand E, Akhtar TA, Basset GJ, Block AK. Dedicated farnesyl diphosphate synthases circumvent isoprenoid-derived growth-defense tradeoffs in Zea mays. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 112:207-220. [PMID: 35960639 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.15941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Zea mays (maize) makes phytoalexins such as sesquiterpenoid zealexins, to combat invading pathogens. Zealexins are produced from farnesyl diphosphate in microgram per gram fresh weight quantities. As farnesyl diphosphate is also a precursor for many compounds essential for plant growth, the question arises as to how Z. mays produces high levels of zealexins without negatively affecting vital plant systems. To examine if specific pools of farnesyl diphosphate are made for zealexin synthesis we made CRISPR/Cas9 knockouts of each of the three farnesyl diphosphate synthases (FPS) in Z. mays and examined the resultant impacts on different farnesyl diphosphate-derived metabolites. We found that FPS3 (GRMZM2G098569) produced most of the farnesyl diphosphate for zealexins, while FPS1 (GRMZM2G168681) made most of the farnesyl diphosphate for the vital respiratory co-factor ubiquinone. Indeed, fps1 mutants had strong developmental phenotypes such as reduced stature and development of chlorosis. The replication and evolution of the fps gene family in Z. mays enabled it to produce dedicated FPSs for developmentally related ubiquinone production (FPS1) or defense-related zealexin production (FPS3). This partitioning of farnesyl diphosphate production between growth and defense could contribute to the ability of Z. mays to produce high levels of phytoalexins without negatively impacting its growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang V Tang
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - David L Berryman
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Horticultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jorrel Mendoza
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jessica P Yactayo-Chang
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Qin-Bao Li
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Shawn A Christensen
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Charles T Hunter
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Norman Best
- Plant Genetics Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Eric Soubeyrand
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Tariq A Akhtar
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Gilles J Basset
- Department of Horticultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Anna K Block
- Chemistry Research Unit, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
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18
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Zhan C, Shen S, Yang C, Liu Z, Fernie AR, Graham IA, Luo J. Plant metabolic gene clusters in the multi-omics era. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 27:981-1001. [PMID: 35365433 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Secondary metabolism in plants gives rise to a vast array of small-molecule natural products. The discovery of operon-like gene clusters in plants has provided a new perspective on the evolution of specialized metabolism and the opportunity to rapidly advance the metabolic engineering of natural product production. Here, we review historical aspects of the study of plant metabolic gene clusters as well as general strategies for identifying plant metabolic gene clusters in the multi-omics era. We also emphasize the exploration of their natural variation and evolution, as well as new strategies for the prospecting of plant metabolic gene clusters and a deeper understanding of how their structure influences their function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuansong Zhan
- College of Tropical Crops, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Sanya Nanfan Research Institute of Hainan University, Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory, Sanya 572025, China
| | - Shuangqian Shen
- College of Tropical Crops, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement and National Center of Plant Gene Research (Wuhan), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Chenkun Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement and National Center of Plant Gene Research (Wuhan), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Zhenhua Liu
- Joint Center for Single Cell Biology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Alisdair R Fernie
- Max-Planck-Institut fur Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie, Am Muhlenberg 1, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany; Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Ian A Graham
- Center for Novel Agricultural Products, Department of Biology, University of York, York, UK
| | - Jie Luo
- College of Tropical Crops, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Sanya Nanfan Research Institute of Hainan University, Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory, Sanya 572025, China.
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19
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Singh KS, van der Hooft JJJ, van Wees SCM, Medema MH. Integrative omics approaches for biosynthetic pathway discovery in plants. Nat Prod Rep 2022; 39:1876-1896. [PMID: 35997060 PMCID: PMC9491492 DOI: 10.1039/d2np00032f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Covering: up to 2022With the emergence of large amounts of omics data, computational approaches for the identification of plant natural product biosynthetic pathways and their genetic regulation have become increasingly important. While genomes provide clues regarding functional associations between genes based on gene clustering, metabolome mining provides a foundational technology to chart natural product structural diversity in plants, and transcriptomics has been successfully used to identify new members of their biosynthetic pathways based on coexpression. Thus far, most approaches utilizing transcriptomics and metabolomics have been targeted towards specific pathways and use one type of omics data at a time. Recent technological advances now provide new opportunities for integration of multiple omics types and untargeted pathway discovery. Here, we review advances in plant biosynthetic pathway discovery using genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, as well as recent efforts towards omics integration. We highlight how transcriptomics and metabolomics provide complementary information to link genes to metabolites, by associating temporal and spatial gene expression levels with metabolite abundance levels across samples, and by matching mass-spectral features to enzyme families. Furthermore, we suggest that elucidation of gene regulatory networks using time-series data may prove useful for efforts to unwire the complexities of biosynthetic pathway components based on regulatory interactions and events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumar Saurabh Singh
- Bioinformatics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
- Plant-Microbe Interactions, Institute of Environmental Biology, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
| | - Justin J J van der Hooft
- Bioinformatics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2006, South Africa
| | - Saskia C M van Wees
- Plant-Microbe Interactions, Institute of Environmental Biology, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
| | - Marnix H Medema
- Bioinformatics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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20
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Smit SJ, Lichman BR. Plant biosynthetic gene clusters in the context of metabolic evolution. Nat Prod Rep 2022; 39:1465-1482. [PMID: 35441651 PMCID: PMC9298681 DOI: 10.1039/d2np00005a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Covering: up to 2022Plants produce a wide range of structurally and biosynthetically diverse natural products to interact with their environment. These specialised metabolites typically evolve in limited taxonomic groups presumably in response to specific selective pressures. With the increasing availability of sequencing data, it has become apparent that in many cases the genes encoding biosynthetic enzymes for specialised metabolic pathways are not randomly distributed on the genome. Instead they are physically linked in structures such as arrays, pairs and clusters. The exact function of these clusters is debated. In this review we take a broad view of gene arrangement in plant specialised metabolism, examining types of structures and variation. We discuss the evolution of biosynthetic gene clusters in the wider context of metabolism, populations and epigenetics. Finally, we synthesise our observations to propose a new hypothesis for biosynthetic gene cluster formation in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Smit
- Centre for Novel Agricultural Products, Department of Biology, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
| | - Benjamin R Lichman
- Centre for Novel Agricultural Products, Department of Biology, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
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21
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Deng R, Li W, Berhow MA, Jander G, Zhou S. Phenolic sucrose esters: evolution, regulation, biosynthesis, and biological functions. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 109:369-383. [PMID: 33783685 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-021-01142-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Phenolic sucrose esters (PSEs) are a diverse group of specialized metabolites that are present in several angiosperm lineages. Phylogenetic reconstruction and structural variation suggest that these metabolites may have evolved independently in monocots and dicots. Constitutive variation in PSE abundance across plant organs and developmental stages is correlated with transcriptional regulation of the upstream phenylpropanoid pathway, whereas pathogen induction is regulated by stress-related phytohormones such as ethylene. Shared structural features of PSEs indicate that their biosynthesis may involve one or more hydroxycinnamoyl transferases and BAHD acetyltransferases, which could be identified by correlative analyses of multi-omics datasets. Elucidation of the core biosynthetic pathway of PSEs will be essential for more detailed studies of the biological function of these compounds and their potential medicinal and agricultural applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renyu Deng
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 440307, China
| | - Wei Li
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 440307, China
| | - Mark A Berhow
- Functional Foods Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, 1815 N, University Street, Peoria, IL, 61604, USA
| | - Georg Jander
- Boyce Thompson Institute, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Shaoqun Zhou
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 440307, China.
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22
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Li J, Chen M, Fan T, Mu X, Gao J, Wang Y, Jing T, Shi C, Niu H, Zhen S, Fu J, Zheng J, Wang G, Tang J, Gou M. Underlying mechanism of accelerated cell death and multiple disease resistance in a maize lethal leaf spot 1 allele. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2022; 73:3991-4007. [PMID: 35303096 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erac116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Multiple disease resistance (MDR) in maize has attracted increasing attention. However, the interplay between cell death and metabolite changes and their contributions to MDR remains elusive in maize. In this study, we identified a mutant named as lesion mimic 30 (les30) that showed 'suicidal' lesion formation in the absence of disease and had enhanced resistance to the fungal pathogen Curvularia lunata. Using map-based cloning, we identified the causal gene encoding pheophorbide a oxidase (PAO), which is known to be involved in chlorophyll degradation and MDR, and is encoded by LETHAL LEAF SPOT1 (LLS1). LLS1 was found to be induced by both biotic and abiotic stresses. Transcriptomics analysis showed that genes involved in defense responses and secondary metabolite biosynthesis were mildly activated in leaves of the les30 mutant without lesions, whilst they were strongly activated in leaves with lesions. In addition, in les30 leaves with lesions, there was overaccumulation of defense-associated phytohormones including jasmonic acid and salicylic acid, and of phytoalexins including phenylpropanoids, lignin, and flavonoids, suggesting that their biosynthesis was activated in a lesion-dependent manner. Taken together, our study implies the existence of an interactive amplification loop of interrupted chlorophyll degradation, cell death, expression of defense-related genes, and metabolite changes that results in suicidal lesion formation and MDR, and this has the potential to be exploited by genetic manipulation to improve maize disease resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiankun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Mengyao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Tianyuan Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Xiaohuan Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Teng Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Cuilan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Hongbin Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Sihan Zhen
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Junjie Fu
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Guoying Wang
- Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Jihua Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan 450002, China
| | - Mingyue Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, Center for Crop Genome Engineering, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
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23
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Steinbrenner AD, Saldivar E, Hodges N, Guayazán-Palacios N, Chaparro AF, Schmelz EA. Signatures of plant defense response specificity mediated by herbivore-associated molecular patterns in legumes. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 110:1255-1270. [PMID: 35315556 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.15732] [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: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Chewing herbivores activate plant defense responses through a combination of mechanical wounding and elicitation by herbivore-associated molecular patterns (HAMPs). HAMPs are wound response amplifiers; however, specific defense outputs may also exist that strictly require HAMP-mediated defense signaling. To investigate HAMP-mediated signaling and defense responses, we characterized cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) transcriptome changes following elicitation by inceptin, a peptide HAMP common in Lepidoptera larvae oral secretions. Following inceptin treatment, we observed large-scale reprogramming of the transcriptome consistent with three different response categories: (i) amplification of mechanical wound responses, (ii) temporal extension through accelerated or prolonged responses, and (iii) examples of inceptin-specific elicitation and suppression. At both early and late timepoints, namely 1 and 6 h, large sets of transcripts specifically accumulated following inceptin elicitation. Further early inceptin-regulated transcripts were classified as reversing changes induced by wounding alone. Within key signaling- and defense-related gene families, inceptin-elicited responses included target subsets of wound-induced transcripts. Transcripts displaying the largest inceptin-elicited fold changes included transcripts encoding terpene synthases (TPSs) and peroxidases (POXs) that correspond with induced volatile production and increased POX activity in cowpea. Characterization of inceptin-elicited cowpea defenses via heterologous expression in Nicotiana benthamiana demonstrated that specific cowpea TPSs and POXs were able to confer terpene emission and the reduced growth of beet armyworm (Spodoptera exigua) herbivores, respectively. Collectively, our present findings in cowpea support a model where HAMP elicitation both amplifies concurrent wound responses and specifically contributes to the activation of selective outputs associated with direct and indirect antiherbivore defenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam D Steinbrenner
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Washington Research Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Evan Saldivar
- Department of Plant Biology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Nile Hodges
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Eric A Schmelz
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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24
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Tiedge K, Destremps J, Solano-Sanchez J, Arce-Rodriguez ML, Zerbe P. Foxtail mosaic virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) in switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.). PLANT METHODS 2022; 18:71. [PMID: 35644680 PMCID: PMC9150325 DOI: 10.1186/s13007-022-00903-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the genome for the allotetraploid bioenergy crop switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) has been established, limitations in mutant resources have hampered in planta gene function studies toward crop optimization. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a versatile technique for transient genetic studies. Here we report the implementation of foxtail mosaic virus (FoMV)-mediated gene silencing in switchgrass in above- and below-ground tissues and at different developmental stages. RESULTS The study demonstrated that leaf rub-inoculation is a suitable method for systemic gene silencing in switchgrass. For all three visual marker genes, Magnesium chelatase subunit D (ChlD) and I (ChlI) as well as phytoene desaturase (PDS), phenotypic changes were observed in leaves, albeit at different intensities. Gene silencing efficiency was verified by RT-PCR for all tested genes. Notably, systemic gene silencing was also observed in roots, although silencing efficiency was stronger in leaves (~ 63-94%) as compared to roots (~ 48-78%). Plants at a later developmental stage were moderately less amenable to VIGS than younger plants, but also less perturbed by the viral infection. CONCLUSIONS Using FoMV-mediated VIGS could be achieved in switchgrass leaves and roots, providing an alternative approach for studying gene functions and physiological traits in this important bioenergy crop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira Tiedge
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California, Davis, USA.
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | - Philipp Zerbe
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California, Davis, USA
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25
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Brazier-Hicks M, Franco-Ortega S, Watson P, Rougemont B, Cohn J, Dale R, Hawkes TR, Goldberg-Cavalleri A, Onkokesung N, Edwards R. Characterization of Cytochrome P450s with Key Roles in Determining Herbicide Selectivity in Maize. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:17416-17431. [PMID: 35647462 PMCID: PMC9134415 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c01705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Safeners such as metcamifen and benoxacor are widely used in maize to enhance the selectivity of herbicides through the induction of key detoxifying enzymes, notably cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs). Using a combination of transcriptomics, proteomics, and functional assays, the safener-inducible CYPs responsible for herbicide metabolism in this globally important crop have been identified. A total of 18 CYPs belonging to clans 71, 72, 74, and 86 were safener-induced, with the respective enzymes expressed in yeast and screened for activity toward thiadiazine (bentazon), sulfonylurea (nicosulfuron), and triketone (mesotrione and tembotrione) chemistries. Herbicide metabolism was largely restricted to family CYP81A members from clan 71, notably CYP81A9, CYP81A16, and CYP81A2. Quantitative transcriptomics and proteomics showed that CYP81A9/CYP81A16 were dominant enzymes in safener-treated field maize, whereas only CYP81A9 was determined in sweet corn. The relationship between CYP81A sequence and activities were investigated by splicing CYP81A2 and CP81A9 together as a series of recombinant chimeras. CYP81A9 showed wide ranging activities toward the three herbicide chemistries, while CYP81A2 uniquely hydroxylated bentazon in multiple positions. The plasticity in substrate specificity of CYP81A9 toward multiple herbicides resided in the second quartile of its N terminal half. Further phylogenetic analysis of CYP81A9 showed that the maize enzyme was related to other CYP81As linked to agrochemical metabolism in cereals and wild grasses, suggesting this clan 71 CYP has a unique function in determining herbicide selectivity in arable crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Brazier-Hicks
- Agriculture,
School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle
upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K.
- Syngenta,
Jealott’s Hill, Bracknell, Berkshire RG42 6EY, U.K.
| | - Sara Franco-Ortega
- Agriculture,
School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle
upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K.
| | - Philip Watson
- Agriculture,
School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle
upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K.
| | | | - Jonathan Cohn
- Syngenta
Crop Protection, LLC, 9 Davis Drive, Research Triangle Park, Durham, North Carolina 27709-2257, United States
| | - Richard Dale
- Syngenta,
Jealott’s Hill, Bracknell, Berkshire RG42 6EY, U.K.
| | - Tim R. Hawkes
- Syngenta,
Jealott’s Hill, Bracknell, Berkshire RG42 6EY, U.K.
| | - Alina Goldberg-Cavalleri
- Agriculture,
School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle
upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K.
| | - Nawaporn Onkokesung
- Agriculture,
School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle
upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K.
| | - Robert Edwards
- Agriculture,
School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle
upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K.
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26
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Murphy KM, Poretsky E, Liu H, Micic N, Nyhuis A, Bohlmann J, Schmelz EA, Zerbe P, Huffaker A, Bjarnholt N. Shielding the oil reserves: the scutellum as a source of chemical defenses. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 188:1944-1949. [PMID: 35139208 PMCID: PMC8968280 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiac038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The cereal scutellum is a hub for diverse specialized defense metabolism and pathway discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Huijun Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 10, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Copenhagen Plant Science Center, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg 1871, Denmark
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg 1871, Denmark
| | - Nikola Micic
- Copenhagen Plant Science Center, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg 1871, Denmark
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg 1871, Denmark
| | - Annika Nyhuis
- Bruker Daltonik GmbH & Co. KG, Bremen 28359, Germany
| | - Joerg Bohlmann
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Eric A Schmelz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92161, USA
| | - Philipp Zerbe
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Alisa Huffaker
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92161, USA
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27
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Förster C, Handrick V, Ding Y, Nakamura Y, Paetz C, Schneider B, Castro-Falcón G, Hughes CC, Luck K, Poosapati S, Kunert G, Huffaker A, Gershenzon J, Schmelz EA, Köllner TG. Biosynthesis and antifungal activity of fungus-induced O-methylated flavonoids in maize. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 188:167-190. [PMID: 34718797 PMCID: PMC8774720 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infection of grasses, including rice (Oryza sativa), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), and barley (Hordeum vulgare), induces the formation and accumulation of flavonoid phytoalexins. In maize (Zea mays), however, investigators have emphasized benzoxazinoid and terpenoid phytoalexins, and comparatively little is known about flavonoid induction in response to pathogens. Here, we examined fungus-elicited flavonoid metabolism in maize and identified key biosynthetic enzymes involved in the formation of O-methylflavonoids. The predominant end products were identified as two tautomers of a 2-hydroxynaringenin-derived compound termed xilonenin, which significantly inhibited the growth of two maize pathogens, Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium verticillioides. Among the biosynthetic enzymes identified were two O-methyltransferases (OMTs), flavonoid OMT 2 (FOMT2), and FOMT4, which demonstrated distinct regiospecificity on a broad spectrum of flavonoid classes. In addition, a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP) in the CYP93G subfamily was found to serve as a flavanone 2-hydroxylase providing the substrate for FOMT2-catalyzed formation of xilonenin. In summary, maize produces a diverse blend of O-methylflavonoids with antifungal activity upon attack by a broad range of fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Förster
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
| | - Vinzenz Handrick
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
| | - Yezhang Ding
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, California 92093-0380, USA
| | - Yoko Nakamura
- Research Group Biosynthesis/NMR, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
| | - Christian Paetz
- Research Group Biosynthesis/NMR, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
| | - Bernd Schneider
- Research Group Biosynthesis/NMR, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
| | - Gabriel Castro-Falcón
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, California 92093, USA
| | - Chambers C Hughes
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, California 92093, USA
| | - Katrin Luck
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
| | - Sowmya Poosapati
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, California 92093-0380, USA
| | - Grit Kunert
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
| | - Alisa Huffaker
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, California 92093-0380, USA
| | - Jonathan Gershenzon
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
| | - Eric A Schmelz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, California 92093-0380, USA
| | - Tobias G Köllner
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena D-07745, Germany
- Author for communication:
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28
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Poosapati S, Poretsky E, Dressano K, Ruiz M, Vazquez A, Sandoval E, Estrada-Cardenas A, Duggal S, Lim JH, Morris G, Szczepaniec A, Walse SS, Ni X, Schmelz EA, Huffaker A. A sorghum genome-wide association study (GWAS) identifies a WRKY transcription factor as a candidate gene underlying sugarcane aphid (Melanaphis sacchari) resistance. PLANTA 2022; 255:37. [PMID: 35020066 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-021-03814-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
A WRKY transcription factor identified through forward genetics is associated with sorghum resistance to the sugarcane aphid and through heterologous expression reduces aphid populations in multiple plant species. Crop plant resistance to insect pests is based on genetically encoded traits which often display variability across diverse germplasm. In a comparatively recent event, a predominant sugarcane aphid (SCA: Melanaphis sacchari) biotype has become a significant agronomic pest of grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor). To uncover candidate genes underlying SCA resistance, we used a forward genetics approach combining the genetic diversity present in the Sorghum Association Panel (SAP) and the Bioenergy Association Panel (BAP) for a genome-wide association study, employing an established SCA damage rating. One major association was found on Chromosome 9 within the WRKY transcription factor 86 (SbWRKY86). Transcripts encoding SbWRKY86 were previously identified as upregulated in SCA-resistant germplasm and the syntenic ortholog in maize accumulates following Rhopalosiphum maidis infestation. Analyses of SbWRKY86 transcripts displayed patterns of increased SCA-elicited accumulation in additional SCA-resistant sorghum lines. Heterologous expression of SbWRKY86 in both tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) and Arabidopsis resulted in reduced population growth of green peach aphid (Myzus persicae). Comparative RNA-Seq analyses of Arabidopsis lines expressing 35S:SbWRKY86-YFP identified changes in expression for a small network of genes associated with carbon-nitrogen metabolism and callose deposition, both contributing factors to defense against aphids. As a test of altered plant responses, 35S:SbWRKY86-YFP Arabidopsis lines were activated using the flagellin epitope elicitor, flg22, and displayed significant increases in callose deposition. Our findings indicate that both heterologous and increased native expression of the transcription factor SbWRKY86 contributes to reduced aphid levels in diverse plant models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Poosapati
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Elly Poretsky
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Keini Dressano
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Miguel Ruiz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Armando Vazquez
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Evan Sandoval
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Adelaida Estrada-Cardenas
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Sarthak Duggal
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Jia-Hui Lim
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Geoffrey Morris
- Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University, 307 University Ave., Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1177, USA
| | - Adrianna Szczepaniec
- Agricultural Biology, Colorado State University, 307 University Ave., Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1177, USA
| | - Spencer S Walse
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, 9611 South Riverbend Avenue, Parlier, CA, 93648-9757, USA
| | - Xinzhi Ni
- Crop Genetics and Breeding Research Unit, USDA-ARS, 115 Coastal Way, Tifton, GA, 31793, USA
| | - Eric A Schmelz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA
| | - Alisa Huffaker
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0116, USA.
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29
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Efficient synthesis of zealexin B1, a maize sesquiterpenoid phytoalexin, viaSuzuki-Miyaura coupling. Tetrahedron Lett 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tetlet.2022.153641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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30
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Shahi A, Mafu S. Specialized metabolites as mediators for plant-fungus crosstalk and their evolving roles. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2021; 64:102141. [PMID: 34814027 PMCID: PMC8671350 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2021.102141] [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: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Plants, fungi, and bacteria produce numerous natural products with bioactive properties essential for ecological adaptation. Because of their chemical complexity, these natural products have been adapted for diverse applications in industry. The discovery of their biosynthetic pathways has been accelerated due to improved 'omics' approaches, metabolic engineering, and the availability of genetic manipulation techniques. Ongoing research into these metabolites is not only resolving the enzymatic diversity underlying their biosynthesis but also delving into the physiological and mechanistic basis of their modes of action. This review highlights progress made in the elucidation of biosynthetic pathways and biological roles of specialized metabolites, focusing on some that play important roles at the interface of plant-fungus interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayousha Shahi
- Plant Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, 240 Thatcher Way, Life Science Laboratories, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Sibongile Mafu
- Plant Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, 240 Thatcher Way, Life Science Laboratories, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts - Amherst, 240 Thatcher Way, Life Science Laboratories, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
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31
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Poretsky E, Ruiz M, Ahmadian N, Steinbrenner AD, Dressano K, Schmelz EA, Huffaker A. Comparative analyses of responses to exogenous and endogenous antiherbivore elicitors enable a forward genetics approach to identify maize gene candidates mediating sensitivity to herbivore-associated molecular patterns. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 108:1295-1316. [PMID: 34564909 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.15510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Crop damage by herbivorous insects remains a significant contributor to annual yield reductions. Following attack, maize (Zea mays) responds to herbivore-associated molecular patterns (HAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), activating dynamic direct and indirect antiherbivore defense responses. To define underlying signaling processes, comparative analyses between plant elicitor peptide (Pep) DAMPs and fatty acid-amino acid conjugate (FAC) HAMPs were conducted. RNA sequencing analysis of early transcriptional changes following Pep and FAC treatments revealed quantitative differences in the strength of response yet a high degree of qualitative similarity, providing evidence for shared signaling pathways. In further comparisons of FAC and Pep responses across diverse maize inbred lines, we identified Mo17 as part of a small subset of lines displaying selective FAC insensitivity. Genetic mapping for FAC sensitivity using the intermated B73 × Mo17 population identified a single locus on chromosome 4 associated with FAC sensitivity. Pursuit of multiple fine-mapping approaches further narrowed the locus to 19 candidate genes. The top candidate gene identified, termed FAC SENSITIVITY ASSOCIATED (ZmFACS), encodes a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase (LRR-RLK) that belongs to the same family as a rice (Oryza sativa) receptor gene previously associated with the activation of induced responses to diverse Lepidoptera. Consistent with reduced sensitivity, ZmFACS expression was significantly lower in Mo17 as compared to B73. Transient heterologous expression of ZmFACS in Nicotiana benthamiana resulted in a significantly increased FAC-elicited response. Together, our results provide useful resources for studying early elicitor-induced antiherbivore responses in maize and approaches to discover gene candidates underlying HAMP sensitivity in grain crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elly Poretsky
- Division of Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Miguel Ruiz
- Division of Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Nazanin Ahmadian
- Division of Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | | | - Keini Dressano
- Division of Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Eric A Schmelz
- Division of Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Alisa Huffaker
- Division of Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
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Block AK, Tang HV, Hopkins D, Mendoza J, Solemslie RK, du Toit LJ, Christensen SA. A maize leucine-rich repeat receptor-like protein kinase mediates responses to fungal attack. PLANTA 2021; 254:73. [PMID: 34529190 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-021-03730-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
A maize receptor kinase controls defense response to fungal pathogens by regulating jasmonic acid and antimicrobial phytoalexin production. Plants use a range of pattern recognition receptors to detect and respond to biotic threats. Some of these receptors contain leucine-rich repeat (LRR) domains that recognize microbial proteins or peptides. Maize (Zea mays) has 226 LRR-receptor like kinases, making it challenging to identify those important for pathogen recognition. In this study, co-expression analysis with genes for jasmonic acid and phytoalexin biosynthesis was used to identify a fungal induced-receptor like protein kinase (FI-RLPK) likely involved in the response to fungal pathogens. Loss-of-function mutants in fi-rlpk displayed enhanced susceptibility to the necrotrophic fungal pathogen Cochliobolus heterostrophus and reduced accumulation of jasmonic acid and the anti-microbial phytoalexins -kauralexins and zealexins- in infected tissues. In contrast, fi-rlpk mutants displayed increased resistance to stem inoculation with the hemibiotrophic fungal pathogen Fusarium graminearum. These data indicate that FI-RLPK is important for fungal recognition and activation of defenses, and that F. graminearum may be able to exploit FI-RLPK function to increase its virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Block
- Chemistry Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Hoang V Tang
- Chemistry Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dorothea Hopkins
- Chemistry Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Sakata Seed America, Inc., Ft. Myers Research Station, Fort Myers, FL, USA
| | - Jorrel Mendoza
- Chemistry Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ryan K Solemslie
- Department of Plant Pathology, Washington State University, Mount Vernon, WA, USA
- Sakata Seed America, Inc., Mount Vernon Research Station, Mount Vernon, WA, USA
| | - Lindsey J du Toit
- Department of Plant Pathology, Washington State University, Mount Vernon, WA, USA
| | - Shawn A Christensen
- Chemistry Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Medema MH, de Rond T, Moore BS. Mining genomes to illuminate the specialized chemistry of life. Nat Rev Genet 2021; 22:553-571. [PMID: 34083778 PMCID: PMC8364890 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-021-00363-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
All organisms produce specialized organic molecules, ranging from small volatile chemicals to large gene-encoded peptides, that have evolved to provide them with diverse cellular and ecological functions. As natural products, they are broadly applied in medicine, agriculture and nutrition. The rapid accumulation of genomic information has revealed that the metabolic capacity of virtually all organisms is vastly underappreciated. Pioneered mainly in bacteria and fungi, genome mining technologies are accelerating metabolite discovery. Recent efforts are now being expanded to all life forms, including protists, plants and animals, and new integrative omics technologies are enabling the increasingly effective mining of this molecular diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marnix H Medema
- Bioinformatics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tristan de Rond
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Bradley S Moore
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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Hansen CC, Nelson DR, Møller BL, Werck-Reichhart D. Plant cytochrome P450 plasticity and evolution. MOLECULAR PLANT 2021; 14:1244-1265. [PMID: 34216829 DOI: 10.1016/j.molp.2021.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The superfamily of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes plays key roles in plant evolution and metabolic diversification. This review provides a status on the CYP landscape within green algae and land plants. The 11 conserved CYP clans known from vascular plants are all present in green algae and several green algae-specific clans are recognized. Clan 71, 72, and 85 remain the largest CYP clans and include many taxa-specific CYP (sub)families reflecting emergence of linage-specific pathways. Molecular features and dynamics of CYP plasticity and evolution are discussed and exemplified by selected biosynthetic pathways. High substrate promiscuity is commonly observed for CYPs from large families, favoring retention of gene duplicates and neofunctionalization, thus seeding acquisition of new functions. Elucidation of biosynthetic pathways producing metabolites with sporadic distribution across plant phylogeny reveals multiple examples of convergent evolution where CYPs have been independently recruited from the same or different CYP families, to adapt to similar environmental challenges or ecological niches. Sometimes only a single or a few mutations are required for functional interconversion. A compilation of functionally characterized plant CYPs is provided online through the Plant P450 Database (erda.dk/public/vgrid/PlantP450/).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Cetti Hansen
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; VILLUM Research Center for Plant Plasticity, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - David R Nelson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Birger Lindberg Møller
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; VILLUM Research Center for Plant Plasticity, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniele Werck-Reichhart
- Institute of Plant Molecular Biology, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
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Medeiros DB, Brotman Y, Fernie AR. The utility of metabolomics as a tool to inform maize biology. PLANT COMMUNICATIONS 2021; 2:100187. [PMID: 34327322 PMCID: PMC8299083 DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2021.100187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
With the rise of high-throughput omics tools and the importance of maize and its products as food and bioethanol, maize metabolism has been extensively explored. Modern maize is still rich in genetic and phenotypic variation, yielding a wide range of structurally and functionally diverse metabolites. The maize metabolome is also incredibly dynamic in terms of topology and subcellular compartmentalization. In this review, we examine a broad range of studies that cover recent developments in maize metabolism. Particular attention is given to current methodologies and to the use of metabolomics as a tool to define biosynthetic pathways and address biological questions. We also touch upon the use of metabolomics to understand maize natural variation and evolution, with a special focus on research that has used metabolite-based genome-wide association studies (mGWASs).
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Medeiros
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Yariv Brotman
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheva, Israel
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Ding Y, Northen TR, Khalil A, Huffaker A, Schmelz EA. Getting back to the grass roots: harnessing specialized metabolites for improved crop stress resilience. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 70:174-186. [PMID: 34129999 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Roots remain an understudied site of complex and important biological interactions mediating plant productivity. In grain and bioenergy crops, grass root specialized metabolites (GRSM) are central to key interactions, yet our basic knowledge of the chemical language remains fragmentary. Continued improvements in plant genome assembly and metabolomics are enabling large-scale advances in the discovery of specialized metabolic pathways as a means of regulating root-biotic interactions. Metabolomics, transcript coexpression analyses, forward genetic studies, gene synthesis and heterologous expression assays drive efficient pathway discoveries. Functional genetic variants identified through genome wide analyses, targeted CRISPR/Cas9 approaches, and both native and non-native overexpression studies critically inform novel strategies for bioengineering metabolic pathways to improve plant traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yezhang Ding
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Trent R Northen
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, CA 94608, USA
| | - Ahmed Khalil
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alisa Huffaker
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Eric A Schmelz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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Mu X, Li J, Dai Z, Xu L, Fan T, Jing T, Chen M, Gou M. Commonly and Specifically Activated Defense Responses in Maize Disease Lesion Mimic Mutants Revealed by Integrated Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Analysis. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:638792. [PMID: 34079566 PMCID: PMC8165315 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.638792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Disease lesion mimic (Les/les) mutants display disease-like spontaneous lesions in the absence of pathogen infection, implying the constitutive activation of defense responses. However, the genetic and biochemical bases underlying the activated defense responses in those mutants remain largely unknown. Here, we performed integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis on three typical maize Les mutants Les4, Les10, and Les17 with large, medium, and small lesion size, respectively, thereby dissecting the activated defense responses at the transcriptional and metabolomic level. A total of 1,714, 4,887, and 1,625 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in Les4, Les10, and Les17, respectively. Among them, 570, 3,299, and 447 specific differentially expressed genes (SGs) were identified, implying a specific function of each LES gene. In addition, 480 common differentially expressed genes (CGs) and 42 common differentially accumulated metabolites (CMs) were identified in all Les mutants, suggesting the robust activation of shared signaling pathways. Intriguingly, substantial analysis of the CGs indicated that genes involved in the programmed cell death, defense responses, and phenylpropanoid and terpenoid biosynthesis were most commonly activated. Genes involved in photosynthetic biosynthesis, however, were generally repressed. Consistently, the dominant CMs identified were phenylpropanoids and flavonoids. In particular, lignin, the phenylpropanoid-based polymer, was significantly increased in all three mutants. These data collectively imply that transcriptional activation of defense-related gene expression; increase of phenylpropanoid, lignin, flavonoid, and terpenoid biosynthesis; and inhibition of photosynthesis are generalnatures associated with the lesion formation and constitutively activated defense responses in those mutants. Further studies on the identified SGs and CGs will shed new light on the function of each LES gene as well as the regulatory network of defense responses in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mingyue Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
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Liu H, Wu H, Wang Y, Wang H, Chen S, Yin Z. Comparative transcriptome profiling and co-expression network analysis uncover the key genes associated withearly-stage resistance to Aspergillus flavus in maize. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2021; 21:216. [PMID: 33985439 PMCID: PMC8117602 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-021-02983-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fungus Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) is a serious threat to maize (Zea mays) production worldwide. It causes considerable yield and economic losses, and poses a health risk to humans and livestock due to the high toxicity of aflatoxin. However, key genes and regulatory networks conferring maize resistance to A. flavus are not clear, especially at the early stage of infection. Here, we performed a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of two maize inbred lines with contrasting resistance to A. flavus infection. RESULTS The pairwise comparisons between mock and infected kernels in each line during the first 6 h post inoculation (hpi) showed that maize resistance to A. flavus infection was specific to the genotype and infection stage, and defense pathways were strengthened in the resistant line. Further comparison of the two maize lines revealed that the infection-induced up-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the resistant line might underlie the enhanced resistance. Gene co-expression network analysis by WGCNA (weighted gene co-expression network analysis) identified 7 modules that were significantly associated with different infection stages, and 110 hub genes of these modules. These key regulators mainly participate in the biosynthesis of fatty acid and antibiotics. In addition, 90 candidate genes for maize resistance to A. flavus infection and/or aflatoxin contamination obtained in previous studies were confirmed to be differentially expressed between the resistant and susceptible lines within the first 6 hpi. CONCLUSION This work unveiled more A. flavus resistance genes and provided a detailed regulatory network of early-stage resistance to A. flavus in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology/Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops/Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of the Ministry of Education/Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Haofeng Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology/Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops/Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of the Ministry of Education/Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology/Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops/Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of the Ministry of Education/Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology/Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops/Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of the Ministry of Education/Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Saihua Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology/Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops/Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of the Ministry of Education/Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China.
| | - Zhitong Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology/Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops/Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of the Ministry of Education/Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China.
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Engineering insect resistance using plant specialized metabolites. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 70:115-121. [PMID: 33866214 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Plants in nature are protected against insect herbivory by a wide variety of specialized metabolites. Although insect herbivores generally tolerate the defensive metabolites of their preferred host plants, the presence of additional chemical defenses in otherwise closely related plant species can nevertheless provide resistance. This chemical resistance to insect herbivory can be enhanced by genetic engineering to increase the production of endogenous defensive metabolites, modify existing biochemical pathways, or move the biosynthesis of entirely new classes of specialized metabolites into recipient plants. However, current plant genetic engineering strategies are limited by insufficient knowledge of the biosynthetic pathways of plant specialized metabolism, unintended side-effects that result from redirecting plant metabolism, inadequate transgene construction and delivery methods, and requirements for tissue-specific production of defensive metabolites to enhance herbivore resistance.
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Yajima A, Shimura M, Saito T, Katsuta R, Ishigami K, Huffaker A, Schmelz EA. Synthesis and Determination of Absolute Configuration of Zealexin A1, a Sesquiterpenoid Phytoalexin from
Zea mays. European J Org Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.202001596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arata Yajima
- Department of Chemistry for Life Sciences and Agriculture Faculty of Life Sciences Tokyo University of Agriculture Sakuragaoka 1–1-1 Setagaya-ku 156-8502 Tokyo Japan
| | - Mikaho Shimura
- Graduate School of Agriculture Tokyo University of Agriculture Sakuragaoka 1–1-1 Setagaya-ku 156-8502 Tokyo Japan
| | - Tatsuo Saito
- Department of Chemistry for Life Sciences and Agriculture Faculty of Life Sciences Tokyo University of Agriculture Sakuragaoka 1–1-1 Setagaya-ku 156-8502 Tokyo Japan
| | - Ryo Katsuta
- Department of Chemistry for Life Sciences and Agriculture Faculty of Life Sciences Tokyo University of Agriculture Sakuragaoka 1–1-1 Setagaya-ku 156-8502 Tokyo Japan
| | - Ken Ishigami
- Department of Chemistry for Life Sciences and Agriculture Faculty of Life Sciences Tokyo University of Agriculture Sakuragaoka 1–1-1 Setagaya-ku 156-8502 Tokyo Japan
| | - Alisa Huffaker
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology University of California San Diego 92093-0380 La Jolla California USA
| | - Eric A. Schmelz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology University of California San Diego 92093-0380 La Jolla California USA
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The plant metabolome guides fitness-relevant foraging decisions of a specialist herbivore. PLoS Biol 2021; 19:e3001114. [PMID: 33600420 PMCID: PMC7924754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Plants produce complex mixtures of primary and secondary metabolites. Herbivores use these metabolites as behavioral cues to increase their fitness. However, how herbivores combine and integrate different metabolite classes into fitness-relevant foraging decisions in planta is poorly understood. We developed a molecular manipulative approach to modulate the availability of sugars and benzoxazinoid secondary metabolites as foraging cues for a specialist maize herbivore, the western corn rootworm. By disrupting sugar perception in the western corn rootworm and benzoxazinoid production in maize, we show that sugars and benzoxazinoids act as distinct and dynamically combined mediators of short-distance host finding and acceptance. While sugars improve the capacity of rootworm larvae to find a host plant and to distinguish postembryonic from less nutritious embryonic roots, benzoxazinoids are specifically required for the latter. Host acceptance in the form of root damage is increased by benzoxazinoids and sugars in an additive manner. This pattern is driven by increasing damage to postembryonic roots in the presence of benzoxazinoids and sugars. Benzoxazinoid- and sugar-mediated foraging directly improves western corn rootworm growth and survival. Interestingly, western corn rootworm larvae retain a substantial fraction of their capacity to feed and survive on maize plants even when both classes of chemical cues are almost completely absent. This study unravels fine-grained differentiation and combination of primary and secondary metabolites into herbivore foraging and documents how the capacity to compensate for the lack of important chemical cues enables a specialist herbivore to survive within unpredictable metabolic landscapes.
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