Analysis of differentially expressed transcripts in jute upon fungal infection and beta-amino butyric acid treatment

Fungal infection by Macrophomina phaseolina severely affects the production of jute, the most important textile next to cotton. We have identified and isolated the transcripts induced upon M. phaseolina infection in jute (JRC 412, a susceptible variety) by differential display analysis. BABA (β-amino butyric acid) is a known elicitor that can activate defence responses in plant. We have studied the effect of pre-treatment of jute (JRC 412) leaves with BABA, on subsequent pathogen (M. phaseolina) challenge. This pre-treatment resulted in better resistance against the pathogen in a susceptible variety of jute. We have also observed that BABA induced peroxidase activity in jute leaf discs. The significance of the isolated differentially expressed genes has been discussed in the light of these findings.

► BABA priming results in better resistance against M. phaseolina in jute.
► Jute transcripts induced upon fungal infection and elicitation are isolated.
► BABA elicits peroxidase activity in jute.