A novel pathogenicity determinant hijacks maize catalase 1 to enhance viral multiplication and infection

Pathogens have evolved various strategies to overcome host immunity for successful infection. Maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV) can cause lethal necrosis in maize (Zea mays) when it coinfects with a the Potyviridae family. However, MCMV pathogenicity determinant remains largely unknown. Here we show that P31 protein of is important viral accumulation and essential symptom development. Ectopic expression using foxtail mosaic or potato X induced systemically infected Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. catalases (CATs) were shown interact yeast planta. was elevated through its interaction ZmCAT1. attenuated salicylic acid (SA)-responsive pathogenesis-related (PR) genes by inhibiting catalase activity during In addition, silencing ZmCATs brome virus-based gene vector facilitated RNA coat accumulation. This study reveals an role counteracting defence inducing systemic chlorosis necrosis. Our results implications understanding mechanisms counter-defence infection plants pathogens.