Leaf proteome analysis of maize inbred lines B73 and Mo17 infected by Fusarium verticillioides (Sacc.) Nirenberg

The maize plant (Zea mays L.), one of the world's most important cereals, produced 1444 million tons globally in 2022. Fusarium crown rot, caused by Fusarium spp., particularly Fusarium verticillioides, significantly impacts maize yield and quality. This study aimed to investigate the proteomic response of two maize inbred lines, B73 and MO17, to F. verticillioides infection using two-dimensional electrophoresis. Leaf proteins were extracted using the TCA-acetone method and identified based on their isoelectric points (pI) and molecular weights. A total of 99 reproducible protein spots were detected, with significant expression changes assessed using the T21 spot test. Eight spots in B73 and six in MO17 exhibited increased expression. Defence-related proteins showed the most important proportion of changes (33 %), including the BAG family molecular chaperone regulator six protein, which is involved in programmed cell death and stress response. Proteins related to energy production, photosynthesis, ion channels and signalling showed decreased expression, indicating a possible reduction in plant vigour and efforts to limit pathogen spread. Structural and defence-related proteins demonstrated increased expression, suggesting an adaptive response to fungal infection. The proteomic comparison revealed that B73 exhibited greater resistance to F. verticillioides than MO17, as evidenced by the distinct protein expression profiles. This study highlights the role of specific proteins in maize defence mechanisms and provides insights into potential targets for enhancing resistance to F. verticillioides infection.