Antifungal proteins in plants

Antifungal proteins (AFPs) in plants are a vital part of their immune system, acting as defense molecules against pathogenic fungi. These proteins are found in various plant tissues and play a significant role in inhibiting fungal growth by disrupting cell wall integrity or interfering with essential enzymatic pathways. AFPs are particularly abundant in seeds, roots, and leaves, where they protect plants during vulnerable growth stages. In agricultural biotechnology, AFPs have become a key focus, as they provide an environmentally friendly way to improve crop resistance to fungal diseases without reliance on chemical fungicides. By incorporating AFPs into genetically modified crops or developing AFP-based treatments, scientists aim to strengthen plant immunity and achieve sustainable pest management solutions in agriculture.