Advanced Research on LysM Domain-Containing Proteins: Functional Mechanisms and Roles in Pathogenicity of Plant Fungi

TL;DR

This review explores how LysM domain-containing proteins in plant pathogenic fungi affect fungal disease and plant immunity.

Contribution

The paper systematically summarizes the roles and mechanisms of LysM domain-containing proteins in plant pathogenic fungi.

Findings

LysM proteins interfere with plant perception of chitin, a key fungal PAMP.

These proteins act as virulence factors by manipulating host immune responses.

The review highlights structural features and potential applications for disease control.

Abstract

Lysin motif (LysM) domain-containing proteins are widespread in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and play crucial roles in microbe-host interactions. In recent decades, a large number of LysM domain-containing proteins have been identified and confirmed to participate in various biological processes, including microbial growth, fungal pathogenesis, and recognition of pathogens by plant immune receptors. Emerging evidence has shown that some LysM domain-containing proteins in plant pathogenic fungi have evolved as key virulence factors. They manipulate host immune responses mainly by interfering with the plant’s perception of chitin, a core pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) of fungal cell walls. However, the functions of LysM domain-containing proteins in plant pathogenic fungi have not been systematically summarized. In this review, we discuss the latest advances in the structural characteristics, classification, and functional mechanisms of these proteins, as well as their applications in plant disease control. We also propose the current challenges and future research directions in this field. This review aims to deepen the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying plant-fungal interactions mediated by LysM domain-containing proteins and provide theoretical references for developing novel and environmentally friendly strategies for fungal disease management in agriculture.

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