Regulation and Evolution of NLR Genes: A Close Interconnection for Plant Immunity.

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Regulation and Evolution of NLR Genes: A Close Interconnection for Plant Immunity.

Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Jun 4;19(6). pii: E1662. doi: 10.3390/ijms19061662.

Borrelli GM, Mazzucotelli E, Marone D, Crosatti C, Michelotti V, Valè G, Mastrangelo AM.
NLR (NOD-like receptor) genes belong to one of the largest gene families in plants.
Interestingly, regulation of gene expression and evolution of this gene family are two strictly interconnected aspects.  Indeed, some examples have been reported in which mechanisms of gene expression regulation have roles in promotion of the evolution of this gene family. Moreover, co-evolution of the NLR gene family and other gene families devoted to their control has been recently demonstrated, as in the case of miRNAs.
Both animals and plants cope with pathogen attacks, which are among the most important biotic stresses. While mammals have specialized cells to confer adaptive immunity, plants have large numbers of immune receptors in all cells.
Recent studies have described the molecular mechanisms that are devoted to the fine regulation of NLR expression and activity as having a pivotal role in resistance to biotic stresses. Deep understanding of these mechanisms might, therefore, open new perspectives for crop improvement in terms of resistance to biotic stresses. Indeed, the key regulatory factors can become breeding targets that can be modulated to obtain durable resistance.