Integrated Transcriptome and sRNAome Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanisms of -Mediated Resistance to Wilt in Banana.

Bananas ( spp.) are among the most important fruit and staple food crops globally, holding a significant strategic position in food security in tropical and subtropical regions. However, the industry is grappling with a significant threat from wilt, a disease incited by f. sp. (Foc). In this study, we explored the potential of (Pi), a mycorrhizal fungus renowned for bolstering plant resilience and nutrient assimilation, to fortify bananas against this devastating disease. Through a meticulous comparative analysis of mRNA and miRNA expression in control, Foc-inoculated, Pi-colonized, and Pi-colonized followed by Foc-inoculated plants via transcriptome and sRNAome, we uncovered a significant enrichment of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and DE miRNAs in pathways associated with plant growth and development, glutathione metabolism, and stress response. Our findings suggest that plays a pivotal role in bolstering banana resistance to Foc. We propose that modulates the expression of key genes, such as (), and transcription factors (TFs), including TCP, through miRNAs, thus augmenting the plant's defensive capabilities. This study offers novel perspectives on harnessing for the management of banana wilt disease.