Sunflower head rot caused by a fungus is a major problem for farmers worldwide. Scientists studied how sunflower plants defend themselves against this fungus by examining a special protein called HaWRKY33. They found that this protein works with another protein (AOA251SVV7) to help sunflowers resist the disease. By identifying the specific parts of these proteins that are important for fighting off the fungus, researchers have provided tools for developing sunflower varieties that are naturally resistant to this damaging disease.