Expression profile of a GDSL-like lipase during compatible and incompatible interactions between Musa spp. and Pseudocercospora fijiensis

The identification of genes of interest for the genetic improvement of Musa spp. against Pseudocercospora fijiensis Morelet is constrained by the limited knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of the plant-pathogen interaction. GDSL-like lipases are promising targets since they are related to the mechanisms of resistance and susceptibility to pathogens. The aim of this work was to determine, through quantitative PCR, the expression profiles of a GDSL-like lipase gene from Musa acuminata Colla during compatible and incompatible interactions with P. fijiensis. Based on this analysis, the gene coding for the GDSL-like lipase was identified in the banana genome and its overexpression was verified in the compatible interaction at the early stage of infection. Keywords:black Sigatoka, Mycosphaerella fijiensis, quantitative PCR