This study investigates the evolution of NLR immune receptor networks in plants, particularly the NRC network. The research focuses on lettuce (Lactuca sativa) as a model to understand sensor and helper NLR diversification. It reveals that the NRC network has expanded less in Asterales compared to Solanales, with lettuce showing a functional but minimal NRC network. The study identifies distinct patterns of diversification and positive selection among NRC sensor clades, linked to helper dependency. Computational modeling suggests helper NLRs form resistosome-like structures, while sensor NLRs do not, highlighting functional differences. These findings provide insights into how pathogen pressures shape plant immune receptor evolution.
Source: A hierarchical immune receptor network in lettuce reveals contrasting patterns of evolution in sensor and helper NLRs
Hsuan Pai, Toshiyuki Sakai, Andres Posbeyikian, Raoul Frijters, Yu Sugihara, Mauricio P. Contreras, Jiorgos Kourelis, Hiroaki Adachi, Sophien Kamoun, AmirAli Toghani
doi: https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.02.25.639832
