Inventors:
Daniel F. Klessig - Bridgewater NJ
Ailan Guo - Piscataway NJ
Assignee:
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey - New Brunswick NJ
International Classification:
C12N 1582
US Classification:
800279, 536 236, 536 241, 435 691, 800278
Abstract:
The present invention provides methods and materials that enhance a plants resistance to certain pathogens. A novel pathway is described and has been designated with the acronym, SI-SAR pathway, for salicylic acid-independent systemic acquired resistance. DNA constructs and methodologies are provided that facilitate the identification of compounds that activate this pathway. Methods are provided to enable the identification of novel genes and signaling components that are expressed when the SI-SAR pathway is activated. Transgenic plants with altered expression of these novel genes or signaling components of the pathway are expected to have enhanced resistance to plant pathogens. Also provided is a novel, pathogen-induced epoxide hydrolase that is inducible in the absence of SA.