Abstract
BackgroundPlant resistance genes, which encode R-proteins, constitute one of the most important and widely investigated gene families. Thanks to the use of both genetic and molecular approaches, more than 100 R genes have been cloned so far. Analysis of resistance proteins and investigation of domain properties may afford insights into their role and function. Moreover, genomic experiments and availability of high-throughput sequence data are very useful for discovering new R genes and establish hypotheses about R-genes architecture.ResultWe surveyed the PRGdb dataset to provide valuable information about hidden R-protein features. Through an in silico approach 4409 putative R-proteins belonging to 33 plant organisms were analysed for domain associations frequency. The proteins showed common domain associations as well as previously unknown classes. Interestingly, the number of proteins falling into each class was found inversely related to domain arrangement complexity. Out of 31 possible theoretical domain combinations, only 22 were found. Proteins retrieved were filtered to highlight, through the visualization of a Venn diagram, candidate classes able to exert resistance function. Detailed analyses performed on conserved profiles of those strong putative R proteins revealed interesting domain features. Finally, several atypical domain associations were identified.ConclusionThe effort made in this study allowed us to approach the R-domains arrangement issue from a different point of view, sorting through the vast diversity of R proteins. Overall, many protein features were revealed and interesting new domain associations were found. In addition, insights on domain associations meaning and R domains modelling were provided.
Highlights
Plant resistance genes, which encode R-proteins, constitute one of the most important and widely investigated gene families
The already described classes are subdivided into kinases (KIN) (35.2%), transmembrane receptors (RLP or receptor-like kinase (RLKs)) (22.9%), and cytoplasmic proteins (CNL and TNL) (9.2%)
Looking at R-domain occurrence in the full dataset, the Nucleotide-Binding Site (NBS) domain was found in 13 classes, followed by the leucine-rich repeat region (LRR) domain in 12, the kinase domain (KIN) domain in 9, and Toll-Interleukin Receptor (TIR) domains in 8 classes
Summary
Plant resistance genes, which encode R-proteins, constitute one of the most important and widely investigated gene families. Genomic experiments and availability of high-throughput sequence data are very useful for discovering new R genes and establish hypotheses about R-genes architecture. During their life plants are continuously under pathogen attack. The plant immune system is based on receptors that recognise broadly conserved molecules associated to a wide range of pathogens. Resistance gene products (R proteins) are thought to recognise signal molecules produced by the pathogen and to respond by initiating rapid changes in host cell physiology and metabolism so as to directly inhibit pathogen growth. Five typical protein structures were recognised as involved in the resistance process: the TIR-
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
