Comparative transcriptomics of cupuassu (Theobroma grandiflorum) offers insights into the early defense mechanism to Moniliophthora perniciosa, the causal agent of witches’ broom disease

ABSTRACT Cupuassu (Theobroma grandiflorum) is a fruit tree native to the Amazon region, presenting high social and economic value. Besides, owing to its suitability for agroforestry cultivation, cupuassu is useful for the conservation of the Amazon Forest. Cupuassu plantations are severely affected by Moniliophthora perniciosa. Thus, to gain insights into resistance against M. perniciosa, transcriptomes of susceptible (SG) and resistant (RG) genotypes of cupuassu were analyzed at the early stage of infection using RNA sequencing. A total of 21,441 unigenes were identified, and differentially expressed genes were detected in intra- (440) and inter-genotype (301) analyses. Gene expression was altered at 24 h after inoculation (HAI) in SG. This alteration was prominent at 48 HAI in RG. These datasets allowed the identification of genes potentially involved in defense mechanisms. Phytohormone signature analysis revealed a significant effect of hormones on genotype responses. The present study is the first large-scale transcriptomic analysis of cupuassu.