Changes in the expression of CrFTA, the Catharanthus roseus farnesyltransferase α-subunit gene, in response to a Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus infection

The farnesyltransferase α-subunit (FTA) may be involved in the regulation of defence responses against pathogens plants. In this study, gene was amplified from Catharanthus roseus (CrFTA gene). cDNA found to 1 403 bp long, and encodes a putative protein 331 amino acids that contains conserved PPTA motif. phylogenetic analysis showed sequence CrFTA is most similar Coffea canephora. qRT-PCR assays indicated expressed leaves, stems, roots. During Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (Ca. L. asiaticus) infection, expression levels significantly increased reached 18-fold measured control group, after which its decreased gradually 22 days top-grafting (DAT) end experiment. Spray application Manumycin A (ManuA), specific inhibitor farnesyltransferase, on leaves C. plants caused significant decrease increase Ca. positivity percentage with asiaticus-infected shoots compared groups not treated ManuA. Furthermore, ABA had no effect relative number asiaticus-positive These results suggest likely plays role mediating tolerance infection roseus.