Genotype-by-genotype interactions reveal transcription patterns underlying resistance responses in Norway spruce to Heterobasidion annosum s.s
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Researchers studied how different spruce trees resist a wood-rotting fungus by examining which genes turn on and off during infection. They found that resistant trees quickly recognize the fungus and strengthen their cell walls, while susceptible trees have delayed responses. Interestingly, different resistant trees sometimes use different defense strategies to achieve similar protection, suggesting multiple genetic pathways can lead to the same outcome.