In a groundbreaking study, scientists led by Professor Liu Zhiyong from the Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences have uncovered a secret code in wheat’s immune system!
Working with experts from Nanjing Normal University, Yazhouwan National Laboratory, and Xianghu Laboratory, the research team discovered that an unusual protein duo—an atypical NLR protein named WTN1 teamed up with the tandem kinase WTK3—acts like a dynamic superhero pair to detect and battle fungal foes like powdery mildew and wheat blast.
Using a unique sensor-executor model, the WTK3-WTN1 team activates robust immune responses that could pave the way for engineering wheat varieties with broad resistance. Imagine a supercharged crop defense system, straight out of a blockbuster movie! 🌾🔬
This breakthrough not only deepens our understanding of plant immunity but also holds promise for building sustainable, next-gen agriculture and enhancing global food security.
Reference(s):
Scientists uncover novel immune mechanism of wheat tandem kinase
cgtn.com
