Seminar: Zigmunds Orlovskis

Underground Biological Internet: Common Mycelial Networks in Inter-Plant Signalling and Resistance to Pathogens

Summary: Mycorrhizal fungi can colonize multiple plant hosts and establish inter-plant connections underground. We investigate the molecular mechanisms through which such networks participate in inter-plant signalling and mediate plant defense responses to foliar pathogens. Uncovering the functions of mycorrhizal networks will help harness their potential for agriculture through novel microbial preparations and genetic crop improvements.