9724075 Dangl A detailed understanding of the molecular events leading to plant disease resistance presents an interesting basic research challenge. Genetic control of disease reactions is often determined by specific interactions between alleles of a pathogen gene locus and an allele of the corresponding plant disease resistance locus. Recent breakthroughs in this field include the molecular identification of the first resistance genes, including RPM1 which is the focus of the proposed work. The protein(s) encoded by Rpm1 recognize pathogen-derived factors in an as yet unknown manner. Engagement of the RPM1 protein triggers signal transduction and defense responses. One important result is that RPM1 encodes a dual specificity , by eliciting resistance to the action of another, unrelated pathogen function. The proposed work will address structure-function relationships of the RPM1 protein, its subcellular localization and the number and nature of proteins with which RPM1 interacts.
