Substrate-induced condensation activates plant TIR domain proteins. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38480885/)

These scientists wanted to understand how certain proteins in plants work to protect them from harmful pathogens. They found that when these proteins are exposed to certain molecules like NAD(+) and ATP, they come together and form tiny droplets in a process called phase separation. This helps the proteins become active and ready to fight off the invaders that can make plants sick.

To study this, the scientists looked at how these proteins behaved in a lab setting and also when a plant was exposed to pathogens. They discovered that the proteins can change their structure and become more powerful when they interact with these specific molecules.

By understanding this process, the scientists hope to find new ways to help plants defend themselves against diseases, ultimately making them healthier and stronger.

Song W., Liu L., Yu D., Bernardy H., Jirschitzka J., Huang S., Jia A., Jemielniak W., Acker J., Laessle H., Wang J., Shen Q., Chen W., Li P., Parker JE., Han Z., Schulze-Lefert P., Chai J. Substrate-induced condensation activates plant TIR domain proteins. Nature. 2024 Mar 13. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07183-9.