Advances on molecular studies of the interaction soybean - Asian rust

Abstract

Effective management practices are essential for controlling rust outbreaks. The main control method used is the application of fungicides, which increases substantially the cost of production and is harmful to the environment. Prevention is still the best way to avoid more significant losses in soybean yields. Alternatives, such as planting resistant varieties to the fungus, are also important. The use of resistant or tolerant varieties is the most promising method for controlling Asian soybean rust. Recently, five dominant genes resistant to soybean rust were described: Rpp1, Rpp2, Rpp3, Rpp4 and Rpp5. However, little is known about the molecular interaction among soybean plant and soybean rust and on the molecular pathway triggered by pathogen recognition. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in defense responses is of primary importance for planning strategies to control stress and, consequently, to increase plant adaptation to limiting conditions.