Aphids

A class of cell wall-derived damage-associated molecular patterns affects plant-aphid interactions

Aphids are among the most destructive pests in agriculture, causing direct damage to crops by feeding on phloem, as well as indirect losses by transmitting more than half of all described plant viruses. During feeding aphids secrete effector proteins into their hosts to manipulate cellular processes and promote infestation. Aphids are largely controlled by pesticides that are environmentally damaging and are being withdrawn from the market.

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