The Arabidopsis ROP-activated receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase RLCK VI{_}A3 is involved in control of basal resistance to powdery mildew and trichome branching

KEY MESSAGE The Arabidopsis receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase AtRLCK VI{_}A3 is activated by AtROPs and is involved in trichome branching and pathogen interaction. Receptor-like cytoplasmic kinases (RLCKs) belong to the large superfamily of receptor-like kinases, which are involved in a variety of cellular processes like plant growth, development and immune responses. Recent studies suggest that RLCKs of the VI{_}A subfamily are possible downstream effectors of the small monomeric G proteins of the plant-specific Rho family, called 'Rho of plants' (RAC/ROPs). Here, we describe Arabidopsis thaliana AtRLCK VI{_}A3 as a molecular interactor of AtROPs. In Arabidopsis epidermal cells, transient co-expression of plasma membrane located constitutively activated (CA) AtROP4 or CA AtROP6 resulting in the recruitment of green fluorescent protein-tagged AtRLCK VI{_}A3 to the cell periphery. Intrinsic kinase activity of AtRLCK VI{_}A3 was enhanced in the presence of CA AtROP6 in vitro and further suggested a functional interaction between the proteins. In the interaction of the biotrophic powdery mildew fungus Erysiphe cruciferarum (E. cruciferarum) and its host plant Arabidopsis, Atrlck VI{_}A3 mutant lines supported enhanced fungal reproduction. Furthermore Atrlck VI{_}A3 mutant lines showed slightly reduced size and an increase in trichome branch number compared to wild-type plants. In summary, our data suggest a role of the AtROP-regulated AtRLCK VI{_}A3 in basal resistance to E. cruciferarum as well as in plant growth and cellular differentiation during trichome morphogenesis. Results are discussed in the context of literature suggesting a function of RAC/ROPs in both resistance and susceptibility to pathogen infection.     «

KEY MESSAGE The Arabidopsis receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase AtRLCK VI{_}A3 is activated by AtROPs and is involved in trichome branching and pathogen interaction. Receptor-like cytoplasmic kinases (RLCKs) belong to the large superfamily of receptor-like kinases, which are involved in a variety of cellular processes like plant growth, development and immune responses. Recent studies suggest that RLCKs of the VI{_}A subfamily are possible downstream effectors of the small monomeric G proteins of...     »