Over-expression of PR proteins with chitinase activity in transgenic plants for alleviation of fungal pathogenesis

Exposure to various biotic or abiotic stresses in plants leads to accumulation of ''pathogenesis-related proteins'' (PRs), that are grouped into seventeen classes. Proteins belonging to few PR classes, that have chitinase activity, are known to be induced in response to fungal pathogens attack. Transgenic plants over-expressing the genes encoding PR-chitinases, offer a useful strategy to mitigate fungal pathogenic attack, leading to better crop yields. Chitinase genes have been introduced in many plants to induce resistance against fungal attacks. This review will present an overview of various classes of PR proteins with chitinase activity and their kinetics with respect to induction profile and activity. Further, an update with respect to the use of chitinases as transgenes for mediating resistance to fungal pathogens, either singularily or in combination with other classes of PR proteins, will be presented. Finally a perspective with regards to challenges, strategies, and future prospects will be provided as conclusion.

Automated summary

Exposure to stresses leads to accumulation of pathogenesis-related proteins (PRs) in plants, and some PR classes with chitinase activity are induced in response to fungal pathogens attack. Transgenic plants over-expressing PR-chitinase genes offer a strategy to mitigate fungal pathogenic attack and improve crop yields.