Bacillus cereus NJ01 induces SA- and ABA-mediated immunity against bacterial pathogens through the EDS1-WRKY18 module.

Emerging evidence suggests a beneficial role of rhizobacteria in ameliorating plant disease resistance in an environment-friendly way. In this study, we characterize a rhizobacterium, Bacillus cereus NJ01, that enhances bacterial pathogen resistance in rice and Arabidopsis. Transcriptome analyses show that root inoculation of NJ01 induces the expression of salicylic acid (SA)- and abscisic acid (ABA)-related genes in Arabidopsis leaves. Genetic evidence showed that EDS1 , PAD4 , and WRKY18 are required for B. cereus NJ01-induced bacterial resistance. An EDS1-PAD4 complex interacts with WRKY18 and enhances its DNA binding activity. WRKY18 directly binds to the W box in the promoter region of the SA biosynthesis gene ICS1 and ABA biosynthesis genes NCED3 and NCED5 and contributes to the NJ01-induced bacterial resistance. Taken together, our findings indicate a role of the EDS1/PAD4-WRKY18 complex in rhizobacteria-induced disease resistance. [Display omitted] • Rhizobacterium Bacillus cereus NJ01 enhances plant resistance against bacterial pathogens • EDS1 enhances WRKY18 DNA-binding activity for the NJ01-enhanced disease resistance • ICS1 and NCED3/5 are downstream of EDS1-WRKY18 for NJ01-enhanced disease resistance The plant microbiome helps to shape the immune system to counter infection of pathogens. Wang et al. show that the root-associated Bacillus cereus NJ01 significantly enhances plant resistance. The EDS1-WKRY18 module is required for NJ01-enhanced disease resistance through activation of SA- and ABA-mediated immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]