The perception of elicitors by plants involves the expression of
a coordinated series of biochemical changes leading to the induc-
tion of defence responses. These include the accumulation of active
oxygen species; the synthesis of pathogenesis-related proteins and
phytoalexins, and the activation of various defence-related
enzymes [12]. Among these, peroxidases (POX) are oxido-reductase
enzymes that participate to cell wall reinforcement thereby
limiting fungal penetration [13]. Polyphenoloxidases (PPO) are
copper metaloproteins that contribute to plant cell defence by
catalyzing the oxidation of phenolics and their conversion into
antimicrobial quinones. These compounds are highly reactive,
modifying and cross-linking a variety of cellular constituents [14].
In date palm, we have previously shown that these enzymes
are involved in resistance of date plam plants to infection by Foa