Protocol for probing candidate effector activity using the Prf-based plant cell death phenotype

Identification and functional characterization of candidate effector proteins of pathogens are essential for understanding plant-microbe interactions. Here, we present a protocol for probing candidate effector activity using the Prf-based plant cell death phenotype. We describe steps for co-infiltrating plant leaves with a Prf protein and the effector and visually assess the cell death phenotype as a readout for detecting effector activity. The protocol enables the screening of candidate effectors that suppress programmed cell death by interfering with plant immune responses. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Wang et al.¹.