Structure and function of resistance proteins in solanaceous plants.
Gene-for-gene resistance in plants is based on the presence of a resistance (R) gene in the host and a matching Avirulence (Avr) gene in the pathogen. Many R genes have been cloned over the past two decades, mostly from the Solanaceae. The gene products, called R proteins, display modular domain structures. R protein function has recently been shown to require dynamic interactions between the various domains. In addition to these intramolecular interactions, R proteins interact with other proteins to form signaling complexes that are able to activate an innate immune response that arrests proliferation of the invading pathogen, thereby conferring disease resistance. In this review, we summarize current understanding of R protein structure and function, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying the activation of defense signaling processes. As well as being a rich source for R genes, Solanaceae are a leading model system in which to study inter- and intramolecular interactions of R proteins.
van Ooijen
Gerben
G
Plant Pathology, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1090 GB Amsterdam, The Netherlands. gvooijen@science.uva.nl
van den Burg
Harrold A
HA
Cornelissen
Ben J C
BJ
Takken
Frank L W
FL
D000255:Adenosine Triphosphate / Q000378:metabolism; D007113:Immunity, Innate; D010940:Plant Proteins / Q000276:immunology*; D015398:Signal Transduction; D019657:Solanaceae / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000502:physiology*
D010940:Plant Proteins; D000255:Adenosine Triphosphate