Biological and Transcriptomic Characterization of Pre-Haustorial Resistance to Sunflower Broomrape (Orobanche cumana W.) in Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)

Infestations with sunflower broomrape (Orobanche cumana Wallr.), an obligatory root parasite, constitute a major limitation to production in many regions around the world. Breeding for resistance is most effective approach reduce infestation, yet mechanisms are often broken by new races of pathogen. Elucidating controlling at molecular level is, thus, desirable way obtain long-lasting resistance. In this study, we investigated confectionery cultivar robust and broomrape. Visual screening histological examination roots revealed that penetration haustorium into was blocked cortex, indicating pre-haustorial mechanism A comparative RNA sequencing between broomrape-resistant -susceptible accessions allowed identification genes were significantly differentially expressed upon infestation. Among these ?-1,3-endoglucanase, ?-glucanase, ethylene-responsive transcription factor 4 (ERF4). These previously reported be pathogenesis-related other plant species. This transcriptomic investigation, together examinations, led us conclude involves consequent formation physical barrier prevents establishment roots.