Expression of a germin-like protein gene (CchGLP) from a geminivirus-resistant pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) enhances tolerance to geminivirus infection in transgenic tobacco

Geminiviruses are plant DNA viruses that cause harm to many crops worldwide. A new superoxide dismutase (SOD) identified in a geminivirus-resistant accession of Capsicum chinense Jacq. BG-3821 and named CchGLP was transgenically expressed in geminivirus-susceptible Nicotiana tabacum xanthi nc plants. There was a direct relationship between CchGLP expression and amelioration of symptoms in transgenic plants compared to infection of wild type plants. Additionally, some Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR) related genes in N. tabacum xanthi nc were induced in transgenic plants. Thus, the CchGLP is demonstrated to be involved in defense against geminivirus infection.

► A SOD from a geminivirus-resistant Capsicum chinense Jacq. was expressed in N. tabacum.
► CchGLP expression showed direct relationship with symptoms in transgenic plants.
► Some SAR related genes in N. tabacum were induced in the transgenic plants.