However, at the critical stage of infection (24–36h), ZGB rapidly initiates a robust immune response: key MAPKKK genes such as MEKK1 and CTR1, along with transcription factors including WRKY and ERF, are significantly upregulated; the MAPK cascade (MKK4/5, MPK3/6) is strongly activated; and downstream transcriptional networks are subsequently engaged. Here, ERF is linked to infection.