The versatile functions of OsALDH2B1 provide a genic basis for growth–defense trade-offs in rice

Significance Crops’ defense activation often causes growth inhibition and yield reduction, which is referred to as trade-offs between growth and defense. In this study, we identified a gene, OsALDH2B1 , that functions as a master regulator of the growth–defense trade-off in rice. The findings provide an example for the genic basis of growth–defense trade-offs in plants and may also have important implication for crop genetic improvement by exploring and modulating these components to achieve a balance between high yield and disease resistance.