Endogenous phthalates in plants and their alleged participation in defense response against phytopathogens

Abstract

Endogenous phthalates (esters of o-phthalic acid) have been revealed in plant in situ and in vitro. Phthalates reduced biofilm formation and growth of Clavibacter michiganensis ssp. sepedonicus and changed morphology of colonies. So phthalates were considered to be a part of plant defense against bacterial phytopathogens. Meanwhile, phthalates have been found in the cells of phytopathogenic bacteria. It was suggested that the physiological and biochemical role of phthalates can be much more complex and not be limited to the participation of plant organisms in the protective process.