Phenolic compounds in plant disease resistance

We propose that an important first line in plant defense against infection is provided by the very rapid synthesis of phenolics and their polymerization in the cell wall. This rapid synthesis, which leaves no time forde novo enzyme synthesis, is regulated by the extreme pH-dependence of the hydroxylase, catalyzing the formation of caffeoyl-CoA from 4-coumaroyl-CoA. We further propose that elicitor treatment or infection causes rapid membrane changes leading to a decrease in cytoplasmic pH. This decrease would have the effect of activating the hydroxylase.