I am talking with reference to the MLO gene family as in Barley where it gives resistance to powdery mildew.
The MLO (Mildew resistance locus O) gene family in plants is known to play a role in resistance to powdery mildew diseases. While it is true that powdery mildew does not infect maize, the MLO gene family has been found to be involved in various biological processes in maize, including seed development, stress response, and plant architecture.
Several studies have suggested that the MLO gene family in maize plays a role in plant defense against other pathogens and pests. For example, one study found that the downregulation of MLO genes in maize increased the plant's resistance to the fungal pathogen Fusarium verticillioides, which causes ear rot disease in maize. Another study found that the overexpression of MLO genes in maize increased the susceptibility of the plant to herbivorous insects.
Therefore, while powdery mildew may not infect maize, the MLO gene family in maize could still play a role in the plant's response to other pathogens and pests. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of the MLO gene family in maize and how it could be utilized in crop improvement programs.
- Badges
- Science method