The fungal metabolite 4‐hydroxyphenylacetic acid from Neofusicoccum parvum modulates defence responses in grapevine.

In a consequence of global warming, grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) have become a pertinent problem to viticulture, because endophytic fungi can turn necrotrophic upon host stress killing the plant. In Neofusicoccum parvum Bt‐67, plant‐derived ferulic acid makes the fungus release Fusicoccin aglycone triggering plant cell death. Now, we show that the absence of ferulic acid lets the fungus secrete 4‐hydroxyphenylacetic acid (4‐HPA), mimicking the effect of auxins on grapevine defence and facilitating fungal spread. Using Vitis suspension cells, we dissected the mode of action of 4‐HPA during defence triggered by the bacterial cell‐death elicitor, harpin. Early responses (cytoskeletal remodelling and calcium influx) are inhibited, as well as the expression of Stilbene Synthase 27 and phytoalexin accumulation. In contrast to other auxins, 4‐HPA quells transcripts for the auxin conjugating GRETCHEN HAGEN 3. We suggest that 4‐HPA is a key component of the endophytic phase of N. parvum Bt‐67 preventing host cell death. Therefore, our study paves the way to understand how GTDs regulate their latent phase for successful colonisation, before turning necrotrophic and killing the vines. Summary statement: During the asymptomatic phase of grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs), the aggressive Neofusicoccum parvum Bt‐67 secretes 4‐ hydroxyphenylacetic acid which has a similar structure to auxins. This metabolite suppressed plant defence mechanisms and downregulated transcripts of GH3, suggesting a key role in quelling the host response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]