Chinese scientists uncover plant's microbial discrimination mechanism

A recent discovery by a Chinese research team has unveiled the intricate mechanisms by which plants differentiate between beneficial symbiotic and harmful disease-causing microbes, as reported by CCTV+, a partner of TV BRICS.

This innovative research, led by Professor Wang Ertao at the Centre for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, addresses a fundamental question in plant biology: how plants accurately discern friend from foe within the complex microbial environment surrounding their roots.

According to the source, the soil surrounding plant roots is teeming with diverse microorganisms, encompassing both symbiotic partners that form mutually beneficial relationships and pathogenic organisms that invade and deplete plant nutrients. The ability to distinguish between these microbial categories is critical to plant health and productivity.

As Professor Wang explained, "Under low-phosphorus conditions, plants release a hormone called strigolactone, which induces symbiotic microorganisms instead of pathogenic microorganisms to activate symbiotic signals. Plants will trigger symbiotic responses after recognising the symbiotic signals, ensuring efficient nutrient acquisition from the environment."

This research not only clarifies the molecular basis of plant-microbe interactions but also lays a foundation for revolutionising agricultural practices, with the potential to improve crop nutrient acquisition through beneficial microbial interactions, the expert claimed.

Photo: iStock