# Histamine: A key compound in red light‐enhanced Fusarium verticillioides resistance in maize

## TL;DR

Red light helps maize resist a fungus called Fusarium verticillioides, with histamine playing a key role in this defense.

## Contribution

This is the first study to show that histamine enhances plant resistance to fungal infection.

## Key findings

- Red light receptors PHYB and PHYC are crucial for maize defense against Fusarium verticillioides.
- Overexpression of PHYC increases resistance to the pathogen.
- Histamine application boosts resistance, especially under high-density conditions.

## Abstract

In this study, we demonstrate that red light is the most critical light component for promoting healthy maize growth during Fusarium verticillioides infection. Red light receptors PHYTOCHROME B (PHYB) and C (PHYC) play essential roles in maize defense against this pathogen. Overexpression of PHYC in maize enhances resistance to F. verticillioides. Additionally, we identified two defense‐related gene networks and some metabolites that reliant on PHYCs, involving key contributors such as WRKY transcription factors and metabolites like histamine and thiamine. Notably, the application of 50 μM histamine significantly boosts resistance, particularly under high‐density conditions, marking the first report of the role of histamine in disease resistance in plants.