The pectin methylesterase gene pbe PME1 is essential for the negative
regulation of Malectin like kinase gene Md MDS1 to the Valsa canker
resistance
Abstract
Valsa canker is a fungal disease of apple and pear growing areas in
China even Asia. Malectin like kinases take crucial roles in plant
recognition of the pathogen-induced signals and subsequent activation of
partially host immune responses. However, the role of MEDOS1 (MDS1) in
plant immunity has not yet been extensively explored. In the Malus
domestic genome, we found that the MdMDS1, a homologous gene of
MDS1 in Arabidopsis, responded to Valsa mali (
Vm) and Valsa pyri ( Vp). Over-expression of
MdMDS1 decreased Valsa canker resistance of Pyrus
betulifolia ‘Duli-G03’ suspension cells, and apple and pear fruits.
During suspension cells in response to Vp signals, up-regulation
of MdMDS1 inhibited expression of defense-related genes but
activated cell wall related genes. Among these, pectin methylesterase
gene PbePME1 was robustly induced. Further analysis confirmed
that PbePME1, a negative regulator of Valsa canker resistance,
was indispensable for MdMDS1’s function by interaction. Our
results provide a theoretical reference for the resistant breeding and
comprehensive control of Valsa canker of both apple and pear.