The expression of maize ZmWRKY68 (Fig.1KeL) was suppressed in response to wounding inTZAR101. It is likely this WRKY gene has a function similar to its orthologs in A. thaliana (AtWRKY11) and rice (OsWRKY68), which have been reported to promote the expression of JA-based defenses while suppressing SA-based defenses [21]. Its ortholog in grape vine (Vitis vinifera) VvWRKY11 was found to enhance resistance to Pseudomonas syringae, as well as water stress tolerance, and could be rapidly induced by application of SA [60]. Further functional studies of ZmWRKY67 and 68 will be required to confirm the actual functions of these genes in the maize A.flavus interaction.