Viruses, Vol. 13, Pages 688: From Player to Pawn: Viral Avirulence Factors Involved in Plant Immunity

Viruses, Vol. 13, Pages 688: From Player to Pawn: Viral Avirulence Factors Involved in Plant Immunity
Viruses doi: 10.3390/v13040688
Authors:
Changjun Huang

In the plant immune system, according to the ‘gene-for-gene’ model, a resistance (R) gene product in the plant specifically surveils a corresponding effector protein functioning as an avirulence (Avr) gene product. This system differs from other plant–pathogen interaction systems, in which plant R genes recognize a single type of gene or gene family because almost all virus genes with distinct structures and functions can also interact with R genes as Avr determinants. Thus, research conducted on viral Avr-R systems can provide a novel understanding of Avr and R gene product interactions and identify mechanisms that enable rapid co-evolution of plants and phytopathogens. In this review, we intend to provide a brief overview of virus-encoded proteins and their roles in triggering plant resistance, and we also summarize current progress in understanding plant resistance against virus Avr genes. Moreover, we present applications of Avr gene-mediated phenotyping in R gene identification and screening of segregating populations during breeding processes.

Source: Viruses - April 16, 2021 Category: Virology Authors: Changjun Huang Tags: Review Source Type: research