Integrated analysis of growth, physiological, and molecular responses in bean genotypes with contrasting resistance to Macrophomina phaseolina
摘要
Phaseolus vulgaris L. (common bean) is one of the most widely consumed legumes in the world for human consumption. Nevertheless, its productivity remains significantly affected by biotic and abiotic stress factors. The necrotrophic fungus Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. is a significant pathogen affecting numerous crops and induces various diseases globally it continues to cause huge economic losses in many crops. Selecting resistant genotypes is an effective alternative for controlling the disease In this study, the objective is to investigate the mechanism of action of Macrophomina phaseolina inoculation. Additionally, the research aims to assess the possible responses of host plants across nine different bean genotypes categorized into three levels of resistance. In addition to morphological observations, physiological and molecular analyses were also performed. The data revealed that the bean seedlings in all three categories (sensitive, moderate, tolerant) showed variable responses to the pathogen according to their genetic structure. In sensitive genotypes, the greatest impact was observed in growth parameters. In G9, leaf area decreased by 33% and root length by 62%. Results indicate that moderate genotypes can partially activate defense metabolism however, response is not as strong and stable as in tolerant genotypes. In the tolerant group, G25 preferred the secondary metabolite and pathogen-associated gene, G50 proline osmotic balance pathway, and G66 the pigment control as a defense mechanism. Based on the physiological and molecular responses evaluated in this study, the genotypes G25 and G66, which demonstrated significant resistance and phenotypic plasticity against M. phaseolina, are recommended as promising plant materials for future pathogen-related research.