Foliar herbivory triggers local and long distance defense responses in maize

► Transcriptome analysis was performed on maize whorl and root after 24 h herbivory. ► Transcriptional response seen in roots in response to foliar herbivory. ► JA might or another unidentified signal could induce systemic responses in roots. ► We assemble a model for defense responses and signaling processes in Mp708 maize.