AUTHOR=Fan Sen , Tang Yunjia , Zhu Na , Meng Qingling , Zhou Yanguang , Zhao Yujin , Xu Jingyan , Gu Chenxian , Dai Shijie , Zhu Bo , Yuan Xiaofeng 

TITLE=Analyzing the defense response mechanism of Atractylodes macrocephala to Fusarium oxysporum through small RNA and degradome sequencing

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Plant Science

VOLUME=15

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2024.1415209

DOI=10.3389/fpls.2024.1415209

ISSN=1664-462X

ABSTRACT=<sec><title>Introduction</title><p><italic>Fusarium oxysporum</italic> is a significant soil-borne fungal pathogen that affects over 100 plant species, including crucial crops like tomatoes, bananas, cotton, cucumbers, and watermelons, leading to wilting, yellowing, growth inhibition, and ultimately plant death. The root rot disease of <italic>A. macrocephala</italic>, caused by <italic>F. oxysporum</italic>, is one of the most serious diseases in continuous cropping, which seriously affects its sustainable development.</p></sec><sec><title>Methods</title><p>In this study, we explored the interaction between <italic>A. macrocephala</italic> and <italic>F. oxysporum</italic> through integrated small RNA (sRNA) and degradome sequencing to uncover the microRNA (miRNA)–mediated defense mechanisms.</p></sec><sec><title>Results</title><p>We identified colonization of <italic>F. oxysporum</italic> in <italic>A. macrocephala</italic> roots on day 6. Nine sRNA samples were sequenced to examine the dynamic changes in miRNA expression in <italic>A. macrocephala</italic> infected by <italic>F. oxysporum</italic> at 0, 6, and 12 days after inoculation. Furthermore, we using degradome sequencing and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), validated four miRNA/target regulatory units involved in <italic>A. macrocephala–F. oxysporum</italic> interactions.</p></sec><sec><title>Discussion</title><p>This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying <italic>A. macrocephala</italic>'s early defense against <italic>F. oxysporum</italic> infection, suggesting directions for enhancing resistance against this pathogen.</p></sec>