Induction of resistance to downy mildew (Peronospora parasitica) in cauliflower by DL-β-amino-n-butanoic acid (BABA)

D. Silué, E. Pajot, Y. Cohen

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48 Scopus citations

Abstract

Of the three isomers of aminobutyric acid, only the β isomer (BABA) was effective in inducing resistance against Peronospora parasitica, the causal agent of downy mildew, in cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis). A single foliar spray applied to 7-day-old seedlings protected the plants against Peronospora parasitica for at least 15 days. Of the enantiomers (R and S), only the R was effective. Resistance was accompanied by a hypersensitive-like reaction (necrotic spots) which was evident before inoculation. BABA was systemically effective when applied to the roots, but failed to protect cotyledons adjacent to treated ones. Unlike other chemical inducers, BABA was effective when applied several hours postinoculation. It had no effect on P. parasitica spore germination. In cauliflower seedlings, BABA did not induce the accumulation of the pathogenesis-related protein PR-1, PR-2, PR-3, PR-5 and PR-9. Only treated and challenged seedlings accumulated PR-2.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)97-102
Number of pages6
JournalPlant Pathology
Volume51
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002

Keywords

  • AABA
  • BABA
  • GABA
  • Induced local and systemic resistance
  • Pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins
  • Priming

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