Researchers studied how a wheat variety called Anmai1350 defends itself against a fungal disease called stripe rust caused by Puccinia striiformis. By analyzing gene activity at different time points after infection, they discovered that the wheat plant’s immune system activates multiple defense strategies, including producing toxic molecules called reactive oxygen species and defensive compounds called phytoalexins that prevent the fungus from spreading. This research helps scientists understand how to breed wheat varieties that can naturally resist this damaging disease and maintain crop yields.