# Genome-Wide Analysis and Functional Correlation of Tomato JAZ Genes Under Tuta absoluta Infestation and Nanoparticle-Induced Defense

## TL;DR

This study shows that using eco-friendly nanoparticles can boost tomato plants' natural defenses against a harmful pest, reducing the need for harmful pesticides.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific JAZ genes in tomatoes that are modulated by nanoparticles to enhance pest resistance.

## Key findings

- Mesoporous silica nanoparticles reduced pest survival and damage in tomato plants.
- Four SlJAZ genes were notably upregulated under nanoparticle and pest treatment.
- Certain SlJAZ genes showed significant negative correlations with pest damage traits.

## Abstract

Tomato crops around the world are under serious threat from an insect pest called Tuta absoluta, which damages the leaves and reduces crop quality and yield. Traditional pesticides used to control this pest can harm the environment and human health. In this study, we explored a safer and more sustainable way to boost the plant’s natural defense system. We focused on a group of genes in tomato plants that help defend against insect attack. We tested the use of mesoporous silica nanoparticles, which can trigger the plant’s defense without harming the environment. By studying changes in gene activity and measuring the damage caused by insects, we found that these nanoparticles reduced pest survival and damage on the plants. Certain defense-related genes were strongly linked to better resistance. This research shows that it is possible to use eco-friendly materials to protect crops by strengthening their own defense systems. The findings could help farmers reduce pesticide use and grow healthier crops in a more sustainable way.

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) production is increasingly threatened by Tuta absoluta, a destructive pest that compromises yield and quality. To explore sustainable alternatives to conventional insecticides, we investigated the jasmonate-mediated defense pathway by performing a genome-wide characterization of the JAZ gene family in S. lycopersicum. A total of 39 SlJAZ genes were identified and mapped to 12 chromosomes. Detailed analysis revealed conserved motifs, diverse exon–intron structures, four major phylogenetic groups, and the presence of multiple MeJA- and stress-responsive cis-elements. Synteny analysis indicated gene duplication events and evolutionary conservation with Arabidopsis and potato. Small RNA predictions suggested that 33 SlJAZ genes are targeted by 69 microRNAs, implying multilayered regulation. Transcriptome analysis under four treatment conditions—mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) ± pest infestation—revealed 21 differentially expressed SlJAZ genes. SlJAZ1, SlJAZ19, SlJAZ20, and SlJAZ22 were notably upregulated under the combined MSN and pest treatment, with expression patterns validated by qRT-PCR (R2 = 0.92). Phenotypic assessment of leaf damage index, larval survival rate, and number of leaf mines showed reduced pest activity in MSN-treated plants. Regression analysis demonstrated significant negative correlations between expression levels of SlJAZ20, SlJAZ26, and SlJAZ29 and pest-related damage traits. These findings indicate that MSNs function as effective elicitors of JA-responsive defense in tomato and modulate the expression of specific JAZ genes linked to enhanced resistance. The study provides a valuable foundation for integrating nanotechnology with molecular defense strategies to promote sustainable pest management.