| Understanding how symbiotic associations between plants and microbes develop
is an important biological question that is particularly relevant in modern
agriculture. Many higher plants establish symbiotic relationships with
arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi that improve their ability to acquire
phosphate and water. In addition to establishing mycorrhizal symbioses,
legumes are unique in their ability to also enter into a nitrogen-fixing
symbiosis (nodulation) with bacteria known as rhizobia that results in
the formation of root nodules.
We are utilizing the model legume Medicago truncatula to unravel the molecular
processes involved in the early steps of nodulation and mycorrhization.
Several genes involved in the perception and transduction of rhizobial signals
called "Nod factors" have been identified. Among them, the DMI (doesn't make
infections) genes are required for Nod factor signaling and the establishment
of both nodulation and mycorrhization. We are interested in how symbiotic signals
are perceived and transduced by the plant and the genetic programs which they
activate using molecular genetics and biochemical approaches.
We are also transferring this information gained from M. truncatula to crops such as
alfalfa and soybean in order to take full advantage of the fantastic
opportunities offered by these symbiotic associations to our agriculture. |
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Program Description