FGSE02, a Novel Secreted Protein in <i>Fusarium graminearum</i> FG-12, Leads to Cell Death in Plant Tissues and Modulates Fungal Virulence.

ABSTRACT: Fungal phytopathogens employ effector proteins and secondary metabolites to subvert host immunity. Effector proteins have attracted widespread interest in infection, especially for unknown, unreported genes. However, the type of protein remains much less explored. Here, we combined transcriptome analysis and functional validation to identify virulence-associated genes in Fusarium graminearum during fungi infection. A unique secreted protein, FGSE02, was significantly upregulated in the early infection stage. Proteomic characterization revealed that the protein contains a functional signal peptide but lacks known domains. The transient expression of FGSE02 in Nicotiana benthamiana induced rapid cell death, while gene knockout stains reduced fungal virulence without affecting g

SUBMITTER: Hao Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12113282 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature