Maize treatment with yeast cells induces resistance against Fusarium rot

Author(s)

Colombini, Fernanda de Sousa ; Ceccato-Antonini, Sandra Regina ; Rosa-Magri, Marcia Maria

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Letters in Applied Microbiology; v. N/A, p. 8-pg., 2022-12-22.

Abstract

Maize is one of the most cultivated species and requires agrochOPemicals for nutrition and pathogen control. Fusarium verticillioides is responsible for damaging plants and stored grains. Plants naturally exposed to stresses have defense mechanisms that are triggered by chemical or biological agents, known as induced systemic resistance. In this study, the yeast Torulaspora globosa (strain CCA6S01) was evaluated as an immune response promoter in maize against F. verticillioides. The treatments started 4 days after maize emergence and consisted of control (saline solution), acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, 100 mg/L), yeast cells (1 x 10(5 )cells/mL), or yeast metabolites (cell-free filtrates). After running the treatments, the plants were inoculated with 1 mL of a F. verticillioides suspension at a concentration of 1 x 10(6 ) spores/mL. The application of yeast cells provided similar results to ASA treatment, a known inducer of plant resistance. Yeast cells provided maize plants with fewer rot symptoms and higher activities of enzymes related to plant resistance. Thus, we concluded that T. globosa (strain CCA6S01) might be used in agriculture practice as a plant protection agent. It can help to decrease the application of fungicides in the field and maintain plant productivity under stress. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/24432-3 - Evaluation of the action of rhizospheric yeast Torulaspora globosa as an inducer of systemic resistance in maize
• Grantee: Fernanda de Sousa Colombini
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation