Effect of the Exogenous Application of Methyl and Ethephon Jasmonate on the Accumulation of Phenolic Compounds and Efficacy against Fusarium Wilt in Cotton [Gossypium hirsutum L. (Malvaceae)]

Aims: The study had for objective to estimate the effect of the stimulating ones of natural defense in the defense of plants.

Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of Biology and Improvement of Crop Production (Nangui Abrogoua University, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire), between February 2018 and August 2018.

Methodology: Thus, the effect of the exogenous application of methyl jasmonate and ethephon on the accumulation of phenolic compounds in cotton [Gossypium hirsutum L. (Malvaceae)] grown in natura was tested. The efficacy of methyl jasmonate and ethephon was subsequently inoculating the cotton plants with a virulent strain of FOV.

Results: The results showed the ability of both stimulators to induce an accumulation of phenolic compounds in cotton. However, the treatment combining the two molecules (MeJA + ETH) was more effective compared to that with MeJA, followed by ETH. Qualitative analysis by HPLC showed the de novo synthesis of Gossypine, Pterosilbene and Resveratrol, which can be considered as phenolic markers of the precondition state of cotton. The exogenous application of MeJA and ETH allowed an amplification of the level of synthesis of phenolic compounds. Inoculation experiments with FOV, a causal agent for Fusarium wilt in cotton, confirmed the efficacy of methyl jasmonate and ethephon. These two molecules conferred protection of cotton plants against FOV.

Conclusion: The stimulation of cotton defense systems by the use of SDN is, therefore, an interesting alternative to chemical control. Its application in the agricultural sector could contribute to the development of a reasoned and sustainable agriculture that is, therefore, more respectful of the environment and human health.