Plant disease resistance genes (R genes) encode such “antenna” proteins, and confer on plants the capacity to recognize these microorganisms, and upon recognition, to activate defense mechanisms.
Different sensors react to corresponding pathogens and produce the same small molecule, 2'cADPR, which triggers the plant's disease resistance. "Since specific sensors can only defend plants ...
Saskia van Wees investigates the intricacies of plant resistance and the role plant hormones play in these processes. Today, she delivers her inaugural lecture.