Enhanced Valsa canker resistance conferred by expression of MdLecRK-S.4.3 in Pyrus betulifolia is largely suppressed by PbePUB36.

Abstract

L-type lectin receptor-like kinases (L-LecRKs) act as sensors of extracellular signals and as initiators for plant immune responses; however, the function of LecRK-S.4 in plant immunity has not yet been extensively investigated. In the present study we found that MdLecRK-S.4.3 in apple (Malus domestica), a homologous gene of LecRK-S.4, was differentially expressed during infection by Valsa mali and Valsa pyri. Overexpression of MdLecRK-S.4.3 facilitated the induction of immune responses and enhanced the resistance to Valsa canker of fruits of apple and pear (Pyrus betulifolia), and of suspension cells of pear 'Duli-G03'. The expression of PbePUB36, a RLCK XI sub-family member, was significantly repressed in the MdLecRK-S.4.3-overexpressing cell lines. Overexpression of PbePUB36 interfered with the resistance to Valsa canker and the immune response caused by up-regulation of MdLecRK-S.4.3. In addition, we found that MdLecRK-S.4.3 interacted with BAK1 and/or PbePUB36 in vivo. Thus, whilst MdLecRK-S.4.3 activated various immune responses and positively regulated Valsa canker resistance, this could be largely compromised by PbePUB36. MdLecRK-S.4.3 interacted with PbePUB36 and/or MdBAK1 to mediate the immune responses. Our finding provides a basis for further examination of the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to Valsa canker, and can contribute to resistance breeding.