Plant Physiology

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Bacterial flagellin

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Plant Physiology

Definition

Bacterial flagellin is a protein that makes up the filament of bacterial flagella, which are long, whip-like structures that enable bacteria to move. In the context of plant immune systems, bacterial flagellin serves as a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) recognized by plant receptors, triggering immune responses to combat bacterial infections.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Bacterial flagellin is essential for bacterial motility, allowing them to navigate their environment effectively.
  2. In plants, the recognition of flagellin by PRRs activates signaling pathways that lead to defense responses, including the production of antimicrobial compounds.
  3. Flg22, a specific 22-amino acid fragment of flagellin, is a key elicitor that stimulates strong immune reactions in plants.
  4. The detection of flagellin and other PAMPs helps plants distinguish between beneficial microbes and harmful pathogens.
  5. Plant immune responses triggered by flagellin can lead to localized cell death and systemic acquired resistance, enhancing overall plant defense.

Review Questions

  • How does bacterial flagellin contribute to the plant immune response?
    • Bacterial flagellin acts as a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) that is recognized by plant pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). When detected, it initiates a cascade of immune responses aimed at defending against bacterial infections. This includes the activation of signaling pathways that lead to the production of defense-related compounds and other protective measures.
  • Discuss the role of Flg22 in the recognition of bacterial flagellin and its impact on plant immunity.
    • Flg22 is a conserved peptide derived from flagellin that serves as a key signal for plant immune activation. When plants recognize Flg22 through their PRRs, it triggers robust immune responses, including the upregulation of defense genes. This specific interaction exemplifies how plants can detect and respond to particular bacterial threats effectively.
  • Evaluate the importance of understanding bacterial flagellin recognition in developing sustainable agricultural practices.
    • Understanding how plants recognize bacterial flagellin and activate their immune responses can lead to innovative strategies in agriculture. By harnessing this knowledge, researchers can develop crop varieties with enhanced disease resistance or create biopesticides that mimic these PAMPs. This could significantly reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and promote sustainable farming practices while maintaining crop health and yield.

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