Identification of defence proteins, essential for aphid tolerance in Indian mustard

Abstract

During mustard aphid attack, a huge number of defence proteins’ expression was observed in Indian mustard cultivars cv. Ashirwad and cv. Pusa Mahak. The expression level of those proteins directly correlated with the aphid tolerance level of mustard cultivars. The similar expression of defence proteins was observed in a well-known aphid tolerant wild crucifer Rorippa indica, where a much higher protein expression level was noted. During the study, one Pentatricopeptide repeat containing protein, F26A19.13 was identified as one of the most important defence protein as it directly blocks the aphid salivary amylase’s function in the plant–insect defence cross-talk.