Analysis of pathogenic proteins 1, 2, and 4 in resistant and susceptible soybean cultivars Challenged by Macrophomina phaseolina

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Department Plant Pathology, Faculty of Crop Sciences, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural.Sari. Iran

2 Department Plant Pathology, Faculty of Crop Sciences, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural.Sari.Iran

3 Genetics and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute of Tabarestan, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Sari, Iran

Abstract

Abstract

The soybean plant (Glycine max L.) is widely recognized as one of the most important nutritional resources for both humans and animals. However, significant threat to this crop is the fungus Macrophomina phaseolina, which causes considerable damage each year. To combat such threats, plants employ sophisticated defense mechanisms that include physical barriers and biochemical responses. Among these, a key biochemical defense is the activation and accumulation of pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, which help contain infections and limit their spread. In this study, we examined the interaction between two commercial soybean varieties and M. phaseolina. At the six-leaf growth stage, soybean seedlings were inoculated with a suspension of fungal spores. Leaf samples were then collected at multiple time points post-infection (0, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 144 hours). Total RNA was extracted from these samples, followed by complementary DNA (cDNA) synthesis. The expression levels of target genes were analyzed using Quantitative Real-Time PCR (qRT-PCR). The findings revealed a gradual increase in the expression levels of the PR1, PR2, and PR4 genes in the resistant JK cultivar after infection, with expression typically peaking at 96 hour post-inoculation. In contrast, the susceptible Sahar cultivar exhibited significantly lower expression levels of these genes. This variation in gene expression highlights the differences in resistance mechanisms among soybean cultivars. These results underscore the importance of gene expression patterns in determining a plant's resistance or susceptibility to disease. A deeper understanding of these molecular mechanisms can significantly contribute to enhancing sustainable agricultural practices and improving crop resilience.

Keywords

Iranian Journal of Plant Pathology
Volume 60, Issue 2
November 2025
Pages 203-214

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