Overview

• Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University identified a mutation in an ACTIN DEPOLYMERIZING FACTOR gene that enhances disease resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana.
• The ADF mutation strengthens defense against mildew pathogens by modifying actin filament dynamics essential for immune signaling.
• Mutant plants displayed premature leaf senescence and chlorosis, with accelerated aging particularly evident under dark conditions.
• ADF proteins coordinate both defense and aging pathways through cytoskeletal remodeling, reactive oxygen species accumulation and hormone signaling.
• Scientists suggest that manipulating ADF regulatory networks could lead to crop varieties combining robust disease resistance with sustained longevity.