The role of RBOH-type NADPH oxidases in compatibility of barley with fungal organisms

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a central role in interaction of plants with microbial pathogens. Membrane-resident NADPH oxidases (Respiratory burst oxidase homologues, RBOHs) are prominent sources of ROS in plant-microbe interactions. RBOHs are also involved in plant development, wound responses and adaptation to the abiotic environment. Our preliminary work points to a role of barley RBOHs in compatibility and basal resistance to Blumeria graminis f.sp. hordei (Bgh). Here, we suggest genetic, biochemical and cell biological approaches for understanding the function of barley RBOH genes in compatibility with diverse fungal microbes.