Identification, sequence characterization and determination of the roles mRNAs, expression of which are modulated in the interaction between Maize (Zea mays L.) and common maize rust (Puccinia sorghi Schw.)

In this study, using a modified cDNA-AFLP technique, 100 cDNA-AFLP fragments, expressions of which are modified in corn (Zea mays) and corn rust (Puccinia sorghi) interaction, have been identified. They were cloned, sequenced, and 68 of which yielded clear sequencing results. The closest sequence similars of these sequences were determined by screening Genebank database. Two of these tags appeared to be similar to the Rp3 sequence, while one tag appeared to be similar to a rust originated transcript. 12 of the remaining tags were found to be similar to the genes encoding protein functioning in photosynthesis, cell metabolism and transport, five tags were found to be similar to the sequences encoding functions protein synthesis, folding and catabolism. The nine tag sequences were found to be similar to the sequences encoding functions signal transduction, redox status and transcriptional regulation, and the remaining 39 tag sequences were identified as similars of mRNA sequences encoding structural, hypothetic and uncharacterized proteins and other stress-related messages. Overall, the majority of tags which were found to be associated with known functions, appear to play a role in plant-microbe interactions. The results are expected to shed some light on characterization of resistance to common corn rust, the molecular details of the interaction occurring between corn and the common corn rust, which causes significant damages to the corn production. Keywords: Corn, common corn rust, plant-fungus interaction, cDNA-AFLP