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Jasmonic acid (JA) signaling controls several processes related to plant growth, development, and defense, which are modulated by the transcription regulator and receptor JASMONATE-ZIM DOMAIN (JAZ) proteins. We recently discovered that a member of the JAZ family, JAZ4, has a prominent function in canonical JA signaling as well as other mechanisms. Here, we discovered the existence of two naturally occurring splice variants (SVs) of JAZ4 in planta, JAZ4.1 and JAZ4.2, and employed biochemical and pharmacological approaches to determine protein stability and repression capability of these SVs within JA signaling. We then utilized quantitative and qualitative transcriptional studies to determine spatiotemporal expression and splicing patterns in vivo, which revealed developmental-, tissue-, and organ-specific regulation. Detailed phenotypic and expression analyses suggest a role of JAZ4 in ethylene (ET) and auxin signaling pathways differentially within the zones of root development in seedlings. These results support a model in which JAZ4 functions as a negative regulator of ET signaling and auxin signaling in root tissues above the apex. However, in the root apex JAZ4 functions as a positive regulator of auxin signaling possibly independently of ET. Collectively, our data provide insight into the complexity of spatiotemporal regulation of JAZ4 and how this impacts hormone signaling specificity and diversity in Arabidopsis roots.

Genomic Prediction (GP) is a powerful approach for inferring complex phenotypes from genetic markers. GP is critical for improving grain yield, particularly for staple crops such as wheat and rice, which are crucial to feeding the world. While machine learning (ML) models have recently started to be applied in GP, it is often unclear what are the best algorithms and how their results are affected by the feature selection (FS) methods. Here, we compared ML and deep learning (DL) algorithms with classical Bayesian approaches, across a range of different FS methods, for their performance in predicting wheat grain yield (in three datasets). Model performance was generally more affected by the prediction algorithm than the FS method. Among all models, the best performance was obtained for tree-based ML methods (random forests and gradient boosting) and for classical Bayesian methods. However, the latter was prone to fitting problems. This issue was also observed for models developed with features selected by BayesA, the only Bayesian FS method used here. Nonetheless, the three other FS methods led to models with no fitting problem but similar performance. Thus, our results indicate that the choice of prediction algorithm is more important than the choice of FS method for developing highly predictive models. Moreover, we concluded that random forests and gradient boosting algorithms generate highly predictive and robust wheat grain yield GP models.

Main conclusion Candidate resistance genes encoding malectin-like and LRR domains mapped to halo blight resistance loci throughout the common bean genome are co-expressed to fight a range of Pph races. Abstract Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important crop both as a source of protein and other nutrients for human nutrition and as a nitrogen fixer that benefits sustainable agriculture. This crop is affected by halo blight disease, caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola (Pph), which can lead to 45% yield losses. Common bean resistance to Pph is conferred by six loci (Pse-1 to Pse-6) and minor-effect quantitative trait loci (QTLs); however, information is lacking on the molecular mechanisms implicated in this resistance. Here, we describe an in-depth RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of the tolerant G2333 bean line in response to the Pph strain NPS3121. We identified 275 upregulated and 357 downregulated common bean genes in response to Pph infection. These differentially expressed genes were mapped to all 11 chromosomes of P. vulgaris. The upregulated genes were primarily components of plant immune responses and negative regulation of photosynthesis, with enrichment for leucine-rich repeat (LRRs) and/or malectin-like carbohydrate-binding domains. Interestingly, LRRs and malectin genes mapped to the same location as previously identified Pph resistance loci or QTLs. For instance, the major loci Pse-6/HB4.2 involved in broad-resistance to many Pph races co-located with induced LRR-encoding genes on Pv04. These findings indicate a coordinated modulation of genes involved in pathogen perception and signal transduction. In addition, the results further support these LRR/malectin loci as resistance genes in response to halo blight. Thus, these genes are potential targets for future genetic manipulation, enabling the introduction of resistance to Pph into elite cultivars of common bean.

The conventional breeding of crops struggles to keep up with increasing food needs and ever-adapting pests and pathogens. Global climate changes have imposed another layer of complexity to biological systems, increasing the challenge to obtain improved crop cultivars. These dictate the development and application of novel technologies, like genome editing (GE), that assist targeted and fast breeding programs in crops, with enhanced resistance to pests and pathogens. GE does not require crossings, hence avoiding the introduction of undesirable traits through linkage in elite varieties, speeding up the whole breeding process. Additionally, GE technologies can improve plant protection by directly targeting plant susceptibility (S) genes or virulence factors of pests and pathogens, either through the direct edition of the pest genome or by adding the GE machinery to the plant genome or to microorganisms functioning as biocontrol agents (BCAs). Over the years, GE technology has been continuously evolving and more so with the development of CRISPR/Cas. Here we review the latest advancements of GE to improve plant protection, focusing on CRISPR/Cas-based genome edition of crops and pests and pathogens. We discuss how other technologies, such as host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) and the use of BCAs could benefit from CRISPR/Cas to accelerate the development of green strategies to promote a sustainable agriculture in the future.

Salmonella enterica is an enterobacterium associated with numerous foodborne illnesses worldwide. Leafy greens have been a common vehicle for disease outbreaks caused by S. enterica. This human pathogen can be introduced into crop fields and potentially contaminate fresh produce. Several studies have shown that S. enterica can survive for long periods in the plant tissues. Often, S. enterica population does not reach high titers in leaves; however, it is still relevant for food safety due to the low infective dose of the pathogen. Thus, laboratory procedures to study the survival of S. enterica in fresh vegetables should be adjusted accordingly. Here, we describe a protocol to assess the population dynamics of S. enterica serovar Typhimurium 14028s in the leaf apoplast of three cultivars of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). By comparing a range of inoculum concentrations, we showed that vacuum infiltration of a bacterium inoculum level in the range of 3.4 Log CFU ml–1 (with a recovery of approximately 170 cells per gram of fresh leaves 2 h post inoculation) allows for a robust assessment of bacterial persistence in three lettuce cultivars using serial dilution plating and qPCR methods. We anticipate that this method can be applied to other leaf–human pathogen combinations in an attempt to standardize the procedure for future efforts to screen for plant phenotypic variability, which is useful for breeding programs.

Background Food contamination with Salmonella enterica and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli is among the leading causes of foodborne illnesses worldwide and crop plants are associated with > 50% of the disease outbreaks. However, the mechanisms underlying the interaction of these human pathogens with plants remain elusive. In this study, we have explored plant resistance mechanisms against these enterobacteria and the plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) DC3118, as an opportunity to improve food safety. Results We found that S. enterica serovar Typhimurium (STm) transcriptionally modulates stress responses in Arabidopsis leaves, including induction of two hallmark processes of plant defense: ROS burst and cell wall modifications. Analyses of plants with a mutation in the potentially STm-induced gene EXO70H4 revealed that its encoded protein is required for stomatal defense against STm and E. coli O157:H7, but not against Pst DC3118. In the apoplast however, EXO70H4 is required for defense against STm and Pst DC3118, but not against E. coli O157:H7. Moreover, EXO70H4 is required for callose deposition, but had no function in ROS burst, triggered by all three bacteria. The salicylic acid (SA) signaling and biosynthesis proteins NPR1 and ICS1, respectively, were involved in stomatal and apoplastic defense, as well as callose deposition, against human and plant pathogens. Conclusions The results show that EXO70H4 is involved in stomatal and apoplastic defenses in Arabidopsis and suggest that EXO70H4-mediated defense play a distinct role in guard cells and leaf mesophyll cells in a bacteria-dependent manner. Nonetheless, EXO70H4 contributes to callose deposition in response to both human and plant pathogens. NPR1 and ICS1, two proteins involved in the SA signaling pathway, are important to inhibit leaf internalization and apoplastic persistence of enterobacteria and proliferation of phytopathogens. These findings highlight the existence of unique and shared plant genetic components to fight off diverse bacterial pathogens providing specific targets for the prevention of foodborne diseases.

Anthracnose (ANT) and angular leaf spot (ALS) caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum and Pseudocercospora griseola, respectively, are devastating diseases of common bean around the world. Therefore, breeders are constantly searching for new genes with broad-spectrum resistance against ANT and ALS. This study aimed to characterize the genetic resistance of California Dark Red Kidney (CDRK) to C. lindemuthianum races 73, 2047, and 3481 and P. griseola race 63-39 through inheritance, allelism testing, and molecular analyses. Genetic analysis of response to ANT and ALS in recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from a CDRK × Yolano cross (CY) showed that the resistance of CDRK cultivar is conferred by a single dominant loci, which we named CoPv01CDRK/PhgPv01CDRK. Allelism tests performed with race 3481showed that the resistance gene in CDRK is independent of the Co-1 and Co-AC. We conducted co-segregation analysis in genotypes of 110 CY RILs and phenotypes of the RILs in response to different races of the ANT and ALS pathogens. The results revealed that CoPv01CDRK and PhgPv01CDRK are coinherited, conferring resistance to all races. Genetic mapping of the CY population placed the CoPv01CDRK/PhgPv01CDRK loci in a 245 Kb genomic region at the end of Pv01. By genotyping 19 RILs from the CY population using three additional markers, we fine-mapped the CoPv01CDRK/PhgPv01CDRK loci to a smaller genomic region of 33 Kb. This 33 Kb region harbors five predicted genes based on the common bean reference genome. These results can be applied in breeding programs to develop bean cultivars with ANT and ALS resistance using marker-assisted selection.

Receptor-like kinases are membrane proteins that can be shared by diverse signalling pathways. Among them, the Arabidopsis thaliana FERONIA (FER) plays a role in the balance between distinct signals to control growth and defence. We have found that COK-4, a putative kinase encoded in the common bean anthracnose resistance locus Co-4, which is transcriptionally regulated during the immune response, is highly similar to the kinase domain of FER. To assess whether COK-4 is a functional orthologue of FER, we expressed COK-4 in the wild-type Col-0 and the fer-5 mutant of Arabidopsis and evaluated FER-associated traits. We observed that fer-5 plants show an enhanced apoplastic and stomatal defence against Pseudomonas syringae. In addition, the fer-5 mutant shows reduced biomass, smaller guard cell size, greater number of stomata per leaf area, fewer leaves, faster transition to reproductive stage and lower seed weight per plant than the wild-type Col-0. Except for the stomatal complex length and number of stomata, COK-4 expression in fer-5 lines partially or completely rescued both defence and developmental defects of fer-5 to the wild-type level. Notably, COK-4 may have an additive effect to FER, as the expression of COK-4 in Col-0 resulted in enhanced defence and growth phenotypes in comparison with wild-type Col-0 plants. Altogether, these findings indicate that the common bean COK-4 shares at least some of the multiple functions of the Arabidopsis FER kinase domain, acting in both the induction of plant growth and regulation of plant defence.

A decade has passed since the discovery of stomatal defense, and the field has expanded considerably with significant understanding of the basic mechanisms underlying the process.

Jasmonate zim-domain (JAZ) proteins comprise a family of transcriptional repressors that modulate jasmonate (JA) responses. JAZ proteins form a co-receptor complex with the F-box protein coronatine insensitive1 (COI1) that recognizes both jasmonoyl-l-isoleucine (JA-Ile) and the bacterial-produced phytotoxin coronatine (COR). Although several JAZ family members have been placed in this pathway, the role of JAZ4 in this model remains elusive. In this study, we observed that the jaz4-1 mutant of Arabidopsis is hyper-susceptible to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000, while Arabidopsis lines overexpressing a JAZ4 protein lacking the Jas domain (JAZ4∆Jas) have enhanced resistance to this bacterium. Our results show that the Jas domain of JAZ4 is required for its physical interaction with COI1, MYC2 or MYC3, but not with the repressor complex adaptor protein NINJA. Furthermore, JAZ4 degradation is induced by COR in a proteasome- and Jas domain-dependent manner. Phenotypic evaluations revealed that expression of JAZ4∆Jas results in early flowering and increased length of root, hypocotyl, and petiole when compared with Col-0 and jaz4-1 plants, although JAZ4∆Jas lines remain sensitive to MeJA- and COR-induced root and hypocotyl growth inhibition. Additionally, jaz4-1 mutant plants have increased anthocyanin accumulation and late flowering compared with Col-0, while JAZ4∆Jas lines showed no alteration in anthocyanin production. These findings suggest that JAZ4 participates in the canonical JA signaling pathway leading to plant defense response in addition to COI1/MYC-independent functions in plant growth and development, supporting the notion that JAZ4-mediated signaling may have distinct branches.

Salmonella enterica is one of the most common pathogens associated with produce outbreaks worldwide; nonetheless, the mechanisms uncovering their interaction with plants are elusive. Previous reports demonstrate that S. enterica ser. Typhimurium (STm), similar to the phytopathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000, triggers a transient stomatal closure suggesting its ability to overcome this plant defense and colonize the leaf apoplast. In order to discover new molecular players that function in the stomatal reopening by STm and Pst DC3000, we performed an Arabidopsis mutant screening using thermal imaging. Further stomatal bioassay confirmed that the mutant plants exo70h4-3, sce1-3, bbe8, stp1, and lsu2 have smaller stomatal aperture widths than the wild type Col-0 in response to STm 14028s. The mutants bbe8, stp1 and lsu2 have impaired stomatal movement in response to Pst DC3000. These findings indicate that EXO70H4 and SCE1 are involved in bacterial-specific responses, while BBE8, STP1, and LSU2 may be required for stomatal response to a broad range of bacteria. The identification of new molecular components of the guard cell movement induced by bacteria will enable a better understanding of the initial stages of plant colonization and facilitate targeted prevention of leaf contamination with harmful pathogens.

The common bean locus Co - 4, traditionally referred to as an anthracnose-resistant gene, contains a cluster of predicted receptor-like kinases (COK-4 and CrRLK1-like), and at least two of these kinases are co-regulated with the plant’s basal immunity. Genetic resistance to anthracnose, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum (Sacc. and Magnus) Briosi and Cavara, is conferred by major loci throughout the Phaseolus vulgaris genome, named Co. The complex Co-4 locus was previously reported to have several copies of the COK-4 gene that is predicted to code for a receptor-like kinase (RLK). In general, plant RLKs are involved in pathogen perception and signal transduction; however, the molecular function of COK-4 remains elusive. Using newly identified molecular markers (PvTA25 and PvSNPCOK-4), the SAS13 marker, COK-4 sequences and phylogeny, and the recently released bean genome sequence, we determined the most probable boundaries of the Co-4 locus: a 325-Kbp region on chromosome Pv08. Out of the 49 predicted transcripts in that region, 24 encode for putative RLKs (including 18 COK-4 copies) with high similarity to members of the Catharanthus roseus RLK1-like (CrRLK1L) protein family from different plant species, including the well-described FERONIA (FER) and ANXUR. We also determined that two RLK-coding genes in the Co-4 locus (COK-4-3 and FER-like) are transcriptionally regulated when bean plants are challenged with the flg22 peptide, a commonly used elicitor of plant immunity, or the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola, the causal agent of halo blight. While COK-4-3 is activated during immune response, FER-like is downregulated suggesting that these genes could play a role in plant responses to biotic stress. These results highlight the importance of dissecting the regulation and molecular function of individual genes within each locus, traditionally referred to as resistance gene based on genetic segregation analysis.

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the world?s most important legume for human consumption. Anthracnose (ANT; Colletotrichum lindemuthianum) and angular leaf spot (ALS; Pseudocercospora griseola) are complex diseases that cause major yield losses in common bean. Depending on the cultivar and environmental conditions, anthracnose and angular leaf spot infections can reduce crop yield drastically. This study aimed to estimate linkage disequilibrium levels and identify quantitative resistance loci (QRL) controlling resistance to both ANT and ALS diseases of 180 accessions of common bean using genomewide association analysis. A randomized complete block design with four replicates was performed for the ANT and ALS experiments, with four plants per genotype in each replicate. Association mapping analyses were performed for ANT and ALS using a mixed linear model approach implemented in TASSEL. A total of 17 and 11 significant statistically associations involving SSRs were detected for ANT and ALS resistance loci, respectively. Using SNPs, 21 and 17 significant statistically associations were obtained for ANT and angular ALS, respectively, providing more associations with this marker. The SSR-IAC167 and PvM95 markers, both located on chromosome Pv03, and the SNP scaffold00021_89379, were associated with both diseases. The other markers were distributed across the entire common bean genome, with chromosomes Pv03 and Pv08 showing the greatest number of loci associated with ANT resistance. The chromosome Pv04 was the most saturated one, with six markers associated with ALS resistance. The telomeric region of this chromosome showed four markers located between approximately 2.5 Mb and 4.4 Mb. Our results demonstrate the great potential of genome-wide association studies to identify QRLs related to ANT and ALS in common bean. The results indicate a quantitative and complex inheritance pattern for both diseases in common bean. Our findings will contribute to more effective screening of elite germplasm to find resistance alleles for marker-assisted selection in breeding programs. Made available in DSpace on 2017-09-27T10:34:08Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 CNPAF2016plosone.pdf: 978494 bytes, checksum: 7270612231930d2467501c7c4e087487 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2017-09-26

Receptor‐like kinases are membrane proteins that can be shared by diverse signalling pathways. Among them, the Arabidopsis thaliana FERONIA (FER) plays a role in the balance between distinct signals to control growth and defence. We have found that COK‐4, a putative kinase encoded in the common bean anthracnose resistance locus Co‐4, which is transcriptionally regulated during the immune response, is highly similar to the kinase domain of FER. To assess whether COK‐4 is a functional orthologue of FER, we expressed COK‐4 in the wild‐type Col‐0 and the fer‐5 mutant of Arabidopsis and evaluated FER‐associated traits. We observed that fer‐5 plants show an enhanced apoplastic and stomatal defence against Pseudomonas syringae. In addition, the fer‐5 mutant shows reduced biomass, smaller guard cell size, greater number of stomata per leaf area, fewer leaves, faster transition to reproductive stage and lower seed weight per plant than the wild‐type Col‐0. Except for the stomatal complex length and number of stomata, COK‐4 expression in fer‐5 lines partially or completely rescued both defence and developmental defects of fer‐5 to the wild‐type level. Notably, COK‐4 may have an additive effect to FER, as the expression of COK‐4 in Col‐0 resulted in enhanced defence and growth phenotypes in comparison with wild‐type Col‐0 plants. Altogether, these findings indicate that the common bean COK‐4 shares at least some of the multiple functions of the Arabidopsis FER kinase domain, acting in both the induction of plant growth and regulation of plant defence.

The genetic linkage map for the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a valuable tool for breeding programs. Breeders provide new cultivars that meet the requirements of farmers and consumers, such as seed color, seed size, maturity, and growth habit. A genetic study was conducted to examine the genetics behind certain qualitative traits. Growth habit is usually described as a recessive trait inherited by a single gene, and there is no consensus about the position of the locus. The aim of this study was to develop a new genetic linkage map using genic and genomic microsatellite markers and three morphological traits: growth habit, flower color, and pod tip shape. A mapping population consisting of 380 recombinant F10 lines was generated from IAC-UNA × CAL143. A total of 871 microsatellites were screened for polymorphisms among the parents, and a linkage map was obtained with 198 mapped microsatellites. The total map length was 1865.9 cM, and the average distance between markers was 9.4 cM. Flower color and pod tip shape were mapped and segregated at Mendelian ratios, as expected. The segregation ratio and linkage data analyses indicated that the determinacy growth habit was inherited as two independent and dominant genes, and a genetic model is proposed for this trait.

The objective of this work was to develop new microsatellite markers in common bean. Ninety nine new microsatelitte loci were developed from a microsatellite enriched library for (CT)8 and (GT)8 motifs, from CAL-143 line. The majority of microsatellite sequences (51%) was related to cellular metabolism. The remaining sequences were associated to transcription functions. Only 17.2% of the sequences presented some level of similarity with other plant species genes. O objetivo deste trabalho foi desenvolver novos marcadores microssatélites para feijão-comum. Noventa e nove novos locos de microssatélites foram desenvolvidos a partir de uma biblioteca enriquecida com motivos (CT)8 e (GT)8, proveniente da linhagem CAL-143. A maioria dos microssatélites (51%) esteve relacionada ao metabolismo celular. As demais seqüências estiveram associadas a funções de transcrição. Apenas 17,2% das seqüências apresentaram alguma semelhança com genes de outras espécies.

Orientadores: Luciana Lasry Benchimol Reis, Luis Eduardo Aranha Camargo Tese (doutorado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia Resumo: O feijão comum (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) é uma importante fonte de proteínas na dieta humana. A mancha angular (ALS), causada pelo fungo Pseudocercospora griseola (Sacc.) Crous & Braun, acarreta grandes prejuízos na produção do feijão. O melhoramento do feijoeiro busca ferramentas que agilizem a transferência de genes de resistência às doenças para cultivares em desenvolvimento. Assim, foi objetivo deste trabalho estudar os mecanismos genéticos e moleculares envolvidos na resposta do feijão à ALS, e com isso contribuir para o melhoramento dessa cultura. Primeiramente, QTLs (Quantitative Trait Locus) de resistência à ALS foram identificados utilizando a população de mapeamento UC (IAC-UNA x CAL 143) a partir do mapa genético previamente desenvolvido com marcadores microssatélites. O estudo quantitativo da severidade da ALS revelou distribuição normal e transgressiva na população UC, com resistência quantitativa observada em CAL 143. Ao todo foram mapeados sete QTLs em cinco diferentes grupos de ligação de feijão. Dentre estes, o loco ALS10.1 mostrou maior efeito (16% - 22%) e estabilidade nos três ambientes analisados: (1) condições naturais de infecção em época chuvosa de plantio; (2) condições naturais de infecção em época seca de plantio; e (3) condições controladas de infecção raça-específica em casa de vegetação. A região do loco ALS10.1 foi saturada com marcadores microssatélites, SCARs e Sequence-Tagged Site-DArTs (STS-DArTs); este último através da técnica de bulk segregant analysis (BSA). O intervalo de confiança foi reduzido de 13.4 cM para 3.0 cM após a saturação do loco, que teve seu número de marcadores aumentado de quatro para 10. O estudo do contexto genômico do ALS10.1 através do alinhamento dos marcadores com o rascunho do genoma do feijão possibilitou definir uma região core para o QTL na extremidade do cromossomo Pv10, com aproximadamente 5,3 Mb. Análise de Gene Onthology (GO) dos 323 genes preditos nesta região do genoma demonstrou que 61,6% destes genes estão envolvidos na resposta a estresse. Cluster de genes TIR-NB-ARC (domínios altamente conservado em genes (R) de Resistência) foi identificado cobrindo aproximadamente 849 Kb na região core de ALS10.1; além de esta região conter outros genes sabidamente relacionados à imunidade de plantas. Sete genes presentes na região core de ALS10.1 foram selecionados com base na função na resistência à patógenos dos respectivos ortólogos em Arabidopsis thaliana, e tiveram sua expressão gênica avaliada na resposta à P. griseola. Gene R TIR-NB-ARC (Phvul.010G025700) foi induzido em resposta compatível no genótipo IAC-UNA, com isso deve permitir a proliferação do patógeno, possivelmente através do reconhecimento do Avr (avirulência) do fungo, bloqueando a resposta de defesa. Além disso, genes putativos de regulação negativa da resposta imune pela inativação da via do ácido salicílico (SA) foram reprimidos durante resposta incompatível no genótipo CAL 143. O AS é um hormônio chave para resposta de defesa induzida por patógenos em plantas. Com isso, o reconhecimento do patógeno pelo feijão deve ocorrer através de genes R para sinalização downstream da resposta de defesa mediada por AS. Os resultados deste trabalho permitirão que o melhorista manipule a diversidade genética do feijão, seja pela introgressão e piramidação dos genes de resistência através de seleção assistida por marcadores ou transgenia; seja pela identificação de cultivares geneticamente resistentes pela análise de expressão gênica Resumo: O feijão comum (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) é uma importante fonte de proteínas na dieta humana. A mancha angular (ALS), causada pelo fungo Pseudocercospora griseola (Sacc.) Crous & Braun, acarreta grandes prejuízos na produção do feijão. O melhoramento do feijoeiro busca ferramentas que agilizem a transferência de genes de resistência às doenças para cultivares em desenvolvimento. Assim, foi objetivo deste trabalho estudar os mecanismos genéticos e moleculares envolvidos na resposta do feijão à ALS, e com isso contribuir para o melhoramento dessa cultura. Primeiramente, QTLs (Quantitative Trait Locus) de resistência à ALS foram identificados utilizando a população de mapeamento UC (IAC-UNA x CAL 143) a partir do mapa genético previamente desenvolvido com marcadores microssatélites. O estudo quantitativo da severidade da ALS revelou distribuição normal e transgressiva na população UC, com resistência quantitativa observada em CAL 143. Ao todo foram mapeados sete QTLs em cinco diferentes grupos de ligação de feijão. Dentre estes, o loco ALS10.1 mostrou maior efeito (16% - 22%) e estabilidade nos três ambientes analisados: (1) condições naturais de infecção em época chuvosa de plantio; (2) condições naturais de infecção em época seca de plantio; e (3) condições controladas de infecção raça-específica em casa de vegetação. A região do loco ALS10.1 foi saturada com marcadores microssatélites, SCARs e Sequence-Tagged Site-DArTs (STS-DArTs); este último através da técnica de bulk segregant analysis (BSA). O intervalo de confiança foi reduzido de 13.4 cM para 3.0 cM após a saturação do loco, que teve seu número de marcadores aumentado de quatro para 10. O estudo do contexto genômico do ALS10.1 através do alinhamento dos marcadores com o rascunho do genoma do feijão possibilitou definir uma região core para o QTL na extremidade do cromossomo Pv10, com aproximadamente 5,3 Mb. Análise de Gene Onthology (GO) dos 323 genes preditos nesta região do genoma demonstrou que 61,6% destes genes estão envolvidos na resposta a estresse. Cluster de genes TIR-NB-ARC (domínios altamente conservado em genes (R) de Resistência) foi identificado cobrindo aproximadamente 849 Kb na região core de ALS10.1; além de esta região conter outros genes sabidamente relacionados à imunidade de plantas. Sete genes presentes na região core de ALS10.1 foram selecionados com base na função na resistência à patógenos dos respectivos ortólogos em Arabidopsis thaliana, e tiveram sua expressão gênica avaliada na resposta à P. griseola. Gene R TIR-NB-ARC (Phvul.010G025700) foi induzido em resposta compatível no genótipo IAC-UNA, com isso deve permitir a proliferação do patógeno, possivelmente através do reconhecimento do Avr (avirulência) do fungo, bloqueando a resposta de defesa. Além disso, genes putativos de regulação negativa da resposta imune pela inativação da via do ácido salicílico (SA) foram reprimidos durante resposta incompatível no genótipo CAL 143. O AS é um hormônio chave para resposta de defesa induzida por patógenos em plantas. Com isso, o reconhecimento do patógeno pelo feijão deve ocorrer através de genes R para sinalização downstream da resposta de defesa mediada por AS. Os resultados deste trabalho permitirão que o melhorista manipule a diversidade genética do feijão, seja pela introgressão e piramidação dos genes de resistência através de seleção assistida por marcadores ou transgenia; seja pela identificação de cultivares geneticamente resistentes pela análise de expressão gênica Abstract: The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important protein source in human diet. The angular leaf spot (ALS), caused by the fungus Pseudocercospora griseola (Sacc.) Crous & Braun, leads to great common bean yield losses. The common bean breeding search for tools that improve the transferring of disease resistance genes to developing cultivars. Therefore, the objective of the present work was study the genetic and molecular mechanisms enrolled in the common bean responses to ALS, and with this contribute to this crop breeding. Initially, ALS resistance QTLs were identified using the UC (IAC-UNA x CAL 143) mapping population based on the genetic map previously developed with microsatellites markers. The quantitative study of the ALS disease severity reveals normal and transgressive distribution on the UC population, with quantitative resistance observed in CAL 143. Seven QTLs were mapped in five different common bean linkage groups. Of these, the ALS10.1 locus showed major effect (16% - 22%) and stability in all three environments analyzed: (1) natural infection conditions in the dry season; (2) natural infection conditions in wet season; and (3) race-specific controlled infection conditions in greenhouse. The ALS10.1 locos region was saturated with microsatellites, SCARs and Sequence-Tagged Site-DArTs (STS-DArTs) markers; the latter using the bulk segregant analysis (BSA). The confidence interval was reduced from 13.4 cM to 3.0 cM after the locus saturation, which had the markers number increased from four to 10. The study of the ALS10.1 genomic context through the alignment of the markers to the draft of the common bean genome enabled the identification of the QTL core at the end of the chromosome Pv10, with approximately 3.5 Mb. The Gene Ontology (GO) analyses of the 323 predicted genes for this genomic region demonstrated that 61.6% of the genes are involved in stress responses. A TIR-NB-ARC gene cluster (domains highly conserved in Resistance (R) genes), was observed covering approximately 849 Kb on the ALS10.1 core region; besides this region also presents other genes known to be related to plant immunity. Seven genes on ALS10.1 core region were selected based on the role in pathogen resistance of the respective Arabidopsis thaliana orthologs, and had their gene expression pattern evaluated in response to P. griseola. The R gene TIR-NB-ARC was induced during the compatible response of the genotype IAC-UNA; therewith it should enable the pathogen proliferation, probably through the fungus Avr recognition, blocking the defense response. In addition, putative negative regulator genes of immune response through the inactivation of salicylic acid (SA) via were repressed during the incompatible response of the CAL 143. The SA is a key hormone to pathogen induced plant defense response. Therefore, the common bean pathogen recognition should take place through the R genes to the downstream signaling of the SA-mediated defense response. The results of the present work will enable the manipulation of the bean genetic diversity by the breeder either by introgression and pyramiding of resistance genes through marker assisted selection or transgenesis; or by the identification of genetically resistant cultivars through gene expression analysis Doutorado Genética Vegetal e Melhoramento Doutora em Genética e Biologia Molecular

Background Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most important grain legume for human diet worldwide and the angular leaf spot (ALS) is one of the most devastating diseases of this crop, leading to yield losses as high as 80%. In an attempt to breed resistant cultivars, it is important to first understand the inheritance mode of resistance and to develop tools that could be used in assisted breeding. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling resistance to ALS under natural infection conditions in the field and under inoculated conditions in the greenhouse. Results QTL analyses were made using phenotypic data from 346 recombinant inbreed lines from the IAC-UNA x CAL 143 cross, gathered in three experiments, two of which were conducted in the field in different seasons and one in the greenhouse. Joint composite interval mapping analysis of QTL x environment interaction was performed. In all, seven QTLs were mapped on five linkage groups. Most of them, with the exception of two, were significant in all experiments. Among these, ALS10.1DG,UC presented major effects (R2 between 16% - 22%). This QTL was found linked to the GATS11b marker of linkage group B10, which was consistently amplified across a set of common bean lines and was associated with the resistance. Four new QTLs were identified. Between them the ALS5.2 showed an important effect (9.4%) under inoculated conditions in the greenhouse. ALS4.2 was another major QTL, under natural infection in the field, explaining 10.8% of the variability for resistance reaction. The other QTLs showed minor effects on resistance. Conclusions The results indicated a quantitative inheritance pattern of ALS resistance in the common bean line CAL 143. QTL x environment interactions were observed. Moreover, the major QTL identified on linkage group B10 could be important for bean breeding, as it was stable in all the environments. Thereby, the GATS11b marker is a potential tool for marker assisted selection for ALS resistance.

BACKGROUND: The genus Colletotrichum is one of the most economically important plant pathogens, causing anthracnose on a wide range of crops including common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Crop yield can be dramatically decreased depending on the plant cultivar used and the environmental conditions. This study aimed to identify potential genetic components of the bean immune system to provide environmentally friendly control measures against this fungus. METHODOLOGY AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: As the common bean is not amenable to reverse genetics to explore functionality and its genome is not fully curated, we used putative Arabidopsis orthologs of bean expressed sequence tag (EST) to perform bioinformatic analysis and experimental validation of gene expression to identify common bean genes regulated during the incompatible interaction with C. lindemuthianum. Similar to model pathosystems, Gene Ontology (GO) analysis indicated that hormone biosynthesis and signaling in common beans seem to be modulated by fungus infection. For instance, cytokinin and ethylene responses were up-regulated and jasmonic acid, gibberellin, and abscisic acid responses were down-regulated, indicating that these hormones may play a central role in this pathosystem. Importantly, we have identified putative bean gene orthologs of Arabidopsis genes involved in the plant immune system. Based on experimental validation of gene expression, we propose that hypersensitive reaction as part of effector-triggered immunity may operate, at least in part, by down-regulating genes, such as FLS2-like and MKK5-like, putative orthologs of the Arabidopsis genes involved in pathogen perception and downstream signaling. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: We have identified specific bean genes and uncovered metabolic processes and pathways that may be involved in the immune response against pathogens. Our transcriptome database is a rich resource for mining novel defense-related genes, which enabled us to develop a model of the molecular components of the bean innate immune system regulated upon pathogen attack.

The objectives of this work were to adapt the fluorescent labeling ( PCR) technique using M13 universal primer for genotyping purposes, and to present a new set of microsatellite markers for common bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.). A large population (380 common bean lines) was used for microsatellite genotyping. PCR fluorescent labeling method showed to be very efficient for multiplex analysis, providing lower costs and saving time, thus increasing the quality of genotyping analysis. A new set of 50 microsatellites developed from an enriched library derived from cultivar IAC-UNA was presented. This study provides better tools for assisting common bean breeding programs.

Orientadores: Luciana Lasry Benchimol, Anete Pereira de Souza Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia Resumo: O feijão comum (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) é o legume mais consumido em todo o mundo. O melhoramento do feijoeiro busca ferramentas robustas de transferência de genes de resistência à doenças para cultivares de interesse. A doença da mancha angular, causada pelo fungo Pseudocercospora griseola (Sacc.) Crous & U. Braun, é responsável por grandes prejuízos aos produtores de feijão. Novo mapa genético para feijão utilizando marcadores microssatélites foi desenvolvido a partir de uma população segregante de 380 linhagens endogâmicas. A população foi gerada pelo cruzamento entre a variedade 'IAC-UNA' (Mesoamericana/suscetível) e a linhagem 'CAL 143' (Andina/resistente). O mapa UC foi gerado com 198 microssatélites ligados, distribuídos nos onze grupos de ligação, usando LOD mínimo de 3,0 e fração de recombinação máxima de 0,40. O comprimento total de mapa encontrado foi de 1.864,2 cM. Os dados fenotípicos das linhagens da população UC quanto à resistência à mancha angular foram obtidos em condições naturais de infecção por P. griseola, em campo, e em condições controladas de casa de vegetação (raça 60.54). Onze QTLs (Quantitative Trait Loci) associados à resistência a mancha angular foram mapeados por mapeamento por intervalo composto. Sete QTLs foram identificados a partir dos dados fenotípicos de campo e outros quatro QTLs, obtidos dos dados de casa de vegetação. Os efeitos dos QTLs foram quantificados. O total da variação fenotípica explicada foi de 34% no experimento de campo, no qual foi identificado o QTL de maior efeito sobre o fenótipo (9,1%). No experimento de casa de vegetação, foi possível explicar 18% do total da variação fenotípica, sendo obtido o segundo QTL de maior efeito, sendo de 7,2%. Os resultados obtidos neste trabalho indicam um padrão de herança poligênico de resistência à mancha angular, sendo necessária a realização de experimentos fenotípicos com repetições para reduzir os efeitos ambientais e com isso, isolar melhor os efeitos genéticos. Abstract: Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most consuming legume worldwide. Common bean breeding is seeking alternatives to transfer resistance genes to cultivars of interest. The angular leaf spot disease caused by the fungus Pseudocercospora griseola (Sacc.) Crous & U. Braun is responsible for great losses for common bean producers. A new genetic map for common bean using microsatellites was obtained from a segregating population of 380 endogamic lines. This population was generated from the 'IAC-UNA' (Mesoamerican/ susceptible) x 'CAL 143' (Andean/resistant) cross. The UC map was generated with 198 microsatellites assigned to eleven linkage groups, using a minimum LOD of 3.0 and a maximum recombinant ratio of 0.40. Total map length found was 1864.2 cM. The angular leaf spot resistance phenotypic data from UC lines was obtained under natural infection condition with P. griseola, on the field, and with controlling greenhouse conditions (race 60.54). Eleven QTLs (Quantitative Trait Loci) were mapped for angular leaf spot resistance using compositive interval mapping. Seven QTLs were identified from field condition and other four QTLs, obtained from greenhouse data. The QTL effects were quantified. Total phenotypic variance explained was 34% on field experiment, in which the major QTL involved on phenotype was identified (9.1%). On the greenhouse experiment it was possible to explain 18% of total phenotypic variance, with the second major QTL, being of 7.2%. The results obtained in this work indicate a polygenic inheritance for angular leaf spot resistance, and it is necessary to carry out new phenotypic experiments with repetitions in order to reduce the environmental effects and, thus, better isolate the genetic effects. Mestrado Genética Vegetal e Melhoramento Mestre em Genética e Biologia Molecular

Angular leaf spot (ALS) and powdery mildew (PWM) are two important fungi diseases causing significant yield losses in common beans. In this study, a new genetic linkage map was constructed using single sequence repeats (SSRs) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), in a segregating population derived from the AND 277 x SEA 5 cross, with 105 recombinant inbred lines. Phenotypic evaluations were performed in the greenhouse to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with resistance by means of the composite interval mapping analysis. Four QTLs were identified for ALS resistance. The QTL ALS11AS, linked on the SNP BAR 5054, mapped on chromosome Pv11, showed the greatest effect (R2 = 26.5%) on ALS phenotypic variance. ForPWMresistance, two QTLs were detected, PWM2AS and PWM11AS, on Pv2 and Pv11, explaining 7% and 66% of the phenotypic variation, respectively. Both QTLs on Pv11 were mapped on the same genomic region, suggesting that it is a pleiotropic region. The present study resulted in the identification of new markers closely linked to ALS and PWM QTLs, which can be used for marker-assisted selection, fine mapping and positional cloning. Made available in DSpace on 2017-09-27T10:32:49Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 CNPAF2017gmb.pdf: 2849901 bytes, checksum: 5e245f054865ed2d58346ab459c628db (MD5) Previous issue date: 2017-09-26

Among the diseases that impact sugarcane productivity is smut, caused by the fungus basidiomycete Sporisorium scitamineum. Modern sugarcane genotypes are highly polyploid interspecific hybrids. This feature restricts molecular studies and functional analyses for the identification of resistance candidate genes and the proofs-of-concept. The present work evaluated the use of Arabidopsis thaliana as a model plant for S. scitamineum colonization through the use of morphological and molecular analyses. The morphological analyses demonstrated that S. scitamineum recognizes A. thaliana as a potential host allowing teliospore germination, appressorium formation and hyphal growth on leaves. The infected plants showed symptoms such as: chlorosis, accumulation of anthocyanin in the meristem and leaves, reduction in biomass, and roots ramification in advanced stages of the colonization. Molecular analyzes detected a transcription reprogramming of genes related to pathogenicity described for smuts, as well as for new effector candidates involved in S.scitamineum-sugarcane interaction. S. scitamineum also modulated the expression in A. thaliana gene associated with meristematic functions; changes also observed in S. scitamineum-sugarcane interaction. This is the first report of using a model plant to study sugarcane smut. The establishment of the pathosystem S. scitamineum- A. thaliana will allow several future applications to understand better S. scitamineum-sugarcane interaction. Entre as doenças que impactam a produtividade da cana de açúcar está o carvão, causado pelo fungo basidiomiceto Sporisorium scitamineum. Os genótipos modernos da cana de açúcar são híbridos interespecíficos altamente poliploides. Essa característica restringe estudos moleculares e análises funcionais para a identificação de genes candidatos à resistência e a prova de conceitos. Nesse sentido, o presente trabalho avaliou o uso de Arabidopsis thaliana como planta modelo para a colonização de S. scitamineum por meio de análises morfológicas e moleculares. As análises morfológicas demonstraram que S. scitamineum reconhece A. thaliana como um hospedeiro e permite a germinação de telósporos, a formação de appressório e o crescimento de hifas do fungo nas folhas. As plantas infectadas apresentaram alguns sintomas como: clorose, acúmulo de antocianina no meristema e folhas, redução da biomassa e ramificação das raízes em estágios mais avançados na colonização. As análises moleculares detectaram expressão de genes relacionados à patogenicidade descrita para carvões, bem como para novos candidatos a efetores envolvidos na interação S. scitamineum-cana. S. scitamineum também orquestrou uma modulação da expressão de genes A. thaliana associados a alterações meristemáticas e à via do ácido jasmônico; as mesmas alterações também foram observadas em S. scitamineum-cana. Este é o primeiro relato do uso de planta modelo para estudo do carvão da cana de açúcar. Os resultados evidenciam que o fungo é capaz de causar alterações nas vias metabólicas do hospedeiro alternativo, semelhante ao seu hospedeiro natural. O estabelecimento do patossistema S. scitamineum-A. thaliana permitirá que várias aplicações futuras compreendam melhor a interação entre S. scitamineum e cana de açúcar.

The genetic linkage map for the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a valuable tool for breeding programs. Breeders provide new cultivars that meet the requirements of farmers and consumers, such as seed color, seed size, maturity, and growth habit. A genetic study was conducted to examine the genetics behind certain qualitative traits. Growth habit is usually described as a recessive trait inherited by a single gene, and there is no consensus about the position of the locus. The aim of this study was to develop a new genetic linkage map using genic and genomic microsatellite markers and three morphological traits: growth habit, flower color, and pod tip shape. A mapping population consisting of 380 recombinant F10 lines was generated from IAC-UNA × CAL143. A total of 871 microsatellites were screened for polymorphisms among the parents, and a linkage map was obtained with 198 mapped microsatellites. The total map length was 1865.9 cM, and the average distance between markers was 9.4 cM. Flower color and pod tip shape were mapped and segregated at Mendelian ratios, as expected. The segregation ratio and linkage data analyses indicated that the determinacy growth habit was inherited as two independent and dominant genes, and a genetic model is proposed for this trait.