Although doing research isn't required i've always thought that the best way to learn science is by doing it. I tend to agree. Listed below is a semi-current research summary, some pictures and pertinent links if you are interested.
Plants depend on various chemical defense mechanisms to resist attack from herbivores and pathogens.
The production of proteinase inhibitors, peroxidases and other chemical defense compounds in response to natural enemy attack are controlled by a system of chemical defense pathways. These systems are known to be able to act independently, but there is evidence to suggest a certain amount of cross-talk between SA mediated pathways involved in Systemic Acquired Resistance and JA mediated defense pathways for Induced Systemic Resistance. The general goal of this study is to examine the relationship of these two plant defense mechanisms and their interactions. Salicylic acid is a mediator in plant chemical defense responsible for resistance to viral, fungal or bacterial attack. SA concentration is elevated in response to pathogenic attack and has been shown to confer Systemic Acquired Resistance and activate genes responsible in the production of anti-microbial agents or antifungal proteins.