Functional genomics analysis of the Pseudomonas fluorescens PICF7/Olea europaea interaction: identification of ESTs during olive roots colonization by an endophytic biocontrol strain

Abstract: Within an integrated disease control strategy to promote long-term protection againstVerticillium wilt of olive (Olea europaea L.), we aimed to elucidate the genetic and molecularprocesses taking place during the colonization of olive roots by Pseudomonas fluorescens PICF7,an effective biocontrol agent against VWO. SSH methodology and transcriptome analysisenabled the identification of putative genes differentially expressed such as several enzymesrelated to biosynthesis of plant hormones (i.e. lipoxygenase, chorismate synthase) and ofphenylpropanoids compounds (i.e. phenylalanine ammonia lyase, cinnamyl-alcohol dehydrogenase).Interestingly, among the transcriptionally up- or down-regulated genes, diversetranscription factors implicated in plant signaling pathways for both biotic and abiotic stimulusresponse were also identified.