Differential expression of phenolic genes associated with plant defense

What is it about?

Gall-inducing insects are parasites thought to manipulate host plants by modifying the accumulation of toxic compounds within the structures induced by them (galls), to defend themselves from predators or to reduce the negative effect of defense-related compounds. This paper explores the genomic bases of plants´ defensive response based on phenolics to infestation of gall-makers in one of the most complex and specialized antagonistic association; the interaction of oaks and cynipid wasps.

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Why is it important?

This work is the first to examine the expression of genes associated with phenolic compounds in galls induced by a recent described species of wasp, Amphibolips michoacaensis and the oak Quercus castanea. Our results suggest a major role of parasites driving the phenolic phenotype of host plants, and support the adaptive value of specific phenolic compounds such as lining and flavonoids. Understand how organisms modulate their respose to stress is central to unravel the bases of biotic interactions.