Puccinia triticina avirulence protein AvrLr21 directly interacts with wheat resistance protein Lr21 to activate wheat immune response

Wheat leaf rust, caused by Puccinia triticina (Pt), remains a constant threat to wheat production worldwide. Deployment of race-specific leaf rust (Lr) resistance genes in wheat provides effective protection against leaf rust, but often leads to selective pressures that drive the rapid emergence of new virulent Pt isolates in nature. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the evasion of Lr-delivered resistance by leaf rust remain largely unknown. Here, we identify an avirulence gene AvrLr21 in Pt that triggers Lr21-dependent immune responses. BSMV (Barley stripe mosaic virus)-mediated host-induced gene silencing assay shows that silencing AvrLr21 compromises Lr21-mediated immunity. AvrLr21 interacts directly with Lr21 protein to induce a hypersensitive response in tobacco leaves. The evolved Lr21-breaking Pt isolates can suppress Lr21-mediated immunity. Our data provide a basis for studying the molecular determinants in Pt-wheat incompatible interaction and monitoring natural Pt populations to prioritize the deployment of Lr resistance genes in the field.