Transcriptome responses to Ralstonia solanacearum infection in the tetraploid potato

Abstract Potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) is a vital global food source, but its growth can be severely impacted by Ralstonia solanacearum ( R. s ) infection. Despite extensive research, the molecular mechanisms of potato resistance to this pathogen are not fully understood. Huashu No.12, a tetraploid potato genotype, has been identified as highly resistant to R. s . In this study, Huashu No.12 and Longshu No.7 were inoculated with R. s to evaluate disease resistance. Results showed that Huashu No.12 exhibited significantly higher resistance to R. s compared to Longshu No.7, with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lignin content, as well as an abundance of corpus callosum and strong autofluorescence in the phloem sieve tube. Related enzymes, such as SOD, CAT, POD, PAL, and PPO, were also found to contribute to Huashu No.12's resistance to R. s disease. Transcriptome sequencing revealed 659 differentially expressed genes between resistant and susceptible materials, with the ERF family having the most differentially expressed genes. GO and KEGG analyses provided further insights into the genetic basis and molecular mechanisms underlying plant defense against R. s disease. Overall, this study highlights the crucial role of related enzymes and differential gene expression in the resistance of Huashu No.12 to R. s , providing valuable insights into potato breeding for disease resistance.