Regulation of Capsicum immunity against microbial pathogens: Transcription factors in focus

Abstract Induction of stress-related genes is primarily reckoned as a major step in plant responses to any stress. The plant genomes possess multiple types of transcription factors (TFs) belonging to diverse families and many of them are unique to plants. The TFs are regulators of transcriptional reprogramming linked with stress responses in plants. TF gene(s) frequently retorts to numerous stresses and then their respective polypeptides may contribute in the positive or negative regulation of apparently dissimilar processes. Many plant TFs are induced by biotrophic as well as necrotrophic pathogens. Functional characterization of TFs provides solid evidence of their role in the regulation of plant defense responses. This advocates the fact that TF does not work alone, but the immune response to pathogens mediated by it, is strongly linked to enhancing the effect of TF on the transcription of defense associated genes. The plant-plant difference in transcriptional responses of TF and Defense associated genes highlights that a TF may regulate defense positively or negatively. This diversity in responses is proof of functional diversity among TFs. Their functions in plant immunity and abiotic stress tolerance in plants have been characterized but still need investigations in Capsicum annuum. This article focuses upon recent progress in our understanding of the role of the TFs involved in Capsicum defense against Microbial pathogenesis especially against bacterial pathogens. We have dissected collateral interactions between TFs, proteins and nuclear receptors working for Capsicum defense. Besides, we have also reviewed and discussed the topical concepts of transcriptional intervention for controlling the activity of TFs.