Extracellular DNA-Induced Resistance as a Damage Associated Molecular Pattern (DAMP) in plants

Abstract

Recent studies have underscored the significance of extracellular DNA (eDNA) as a trigger for defense responses in plants. Our results demonstrated that Arabidopsis thaliana responds to the application of eDNA in a species-specific and dosage-dependent manner. Moreover, eDNA treatment induced resistance to various agricultural pathogens and pests, including thrips. we observed that enhanced resistance against thrips in eDNA-treated plants was associated with callose accumulation in the affected area. Gene ontology analysis highlighted heightened enrichment in genes associated with jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis pathways and glucosinolates post-thrips infestation in the eDNA-treated group. Further validation through phenotype resistance analysis on glucosinolate biosynthesis mutants confirmed the pivotal role of glucosinolates in eDNA-induced resistance. Our findings suggest that eDNA-treated plants exhibit a faster and stronger defense response to the current challenge. This study sheds light on the intricate mechanisms governing plant responses to eDNA as a danger signal, offering valuable insights for agricultural practices.