Q.53 Which of the following is NOT involved in plant immune response?
(A) Antimicrobial proteins
(B) Hypersensitive response
(C) Pattern recognition receptors
(D) Interleukins

Interleukins are signaling molecules exclusive to animal immune systems, making them absent in plant immune responses. Plants rely on distinct mechanisms like pattern recognition and antimicrobial defenses to combat pathogens. This guide breaks down the MCQ options for clarity.

Correct Answer

(D) Interleukins​

Interleukins function as cytokines in animal immunity, coordinating responses between leukocytes, but plants lack these proteins and immune cells. Plant defenses instead activate through receptor-based detection and localized reactions without interleukins. This distinction highlights evolutionary differences between plant and animal immunity.​

Option Breakdown

Antimicrobial Proteins

Plants produce antimicrobial proteins, such as defensins and thionins, to directly inhibit pathogen growth during immune activation. These proteins disrupt microbial membranes and are key effectors in both basal and induced defenses. They form part of the multifaceted plant immune arsenal.​

Hypersensitive Response

The hypersensitive response (HR) involves rapid cell death at infection sites to confine pathogens in plants. This programmed cell death limits spread and triggers systemic signals for broader resistance. HR exemplifies effector-triggered immunity in incompatible plant-pathogen interactions.​

Pattern Recognition Receptors

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), like receptor-like kinases (RLKs), detect microbial patterns (PAMPs) on cell surfaces in plants. This initiates pattern-triggered immunity (PTI), including reactive oxygen bursts and defense gene expression. PRRs serve as the first line of plant immune surveillance.​