Gene expression profiles in maize (Zea mays L.) leaves inoculation with southern corn rust (Puccinia polysora Underw.)

Abstract

Southern corn rust (SCR) epiphytotics have resulted in severe losses of maize yield. Whole-genome gene expression profiles of a SCR-resistant maize hybrid leaves after inoculation with Puccinia polysora Underw. were analyzed using an Affymetrix GeneChip. Of the 532 differentially expressed probe sets, 341 were up-regulated and 191 were down-regulated after inoculation with P. polysora Underw. Many biotic stress response-related genes were up-regulated, whereas abiotic stress-related genes were down-regulated. Among 23 differentially expressed transcription factors (TFs), six WRKY TFs were all up-regulated. A number of genes that were defense-related and reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism-related genes were significantly induced by inoculation with P. polysora Underw. Thus, WRKY TFs could participate in the SCR resistance reaction and the mechanism of maize resistance to P. polysora Underw. could principally involve the temporary induction of defense- and ROS metabolism-related genes.