[Campbell Biology P.916] Which of the following statements accurately distinguishes between ... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately distinguishes between the hypersensitive response HR and systemic acquired resistance SAR in plants?

  • A: HR is a systemic defense, while SAR is a localized defense.
  • B: HR primarily involves the production of methylsalicylic acid, while SAR involves direct cell self-destruction.
  • C: HR leads to the formation of localized lesions to isolate pathogens, whereas SAR provides broad-spectrum, long-lasting resistance in uninfected parts of the plant.
  • D: Both HR and SAR are triggered by PAMPs.

Explanation

The hypersensitive response HR is a localized defense that involves the death of infected cells to create lesions, isolating the pathogen. Systemic acquired resistance SAR , on the other hand, is a broader, long-lasting defense activated by a signal salicylic acid that spreads throughout the plant, providing resistance to a variety of pathogens in uninfected areas.