Comparative transcriptomics uncovers poplar and fungal genetic determinants of ectomycorrhizal compatibility.

ABSTRACT: Ectomycorrhizal symbiosis supports tree growth and is crucial for nutrient cycling and temperate and boreal ecosystems functioning. The establishment of functional ectomycorrhiza (ECM) first requires the association of compatible partners. However, host and fungal genetic determinants governing mycorrhizal compatibility are unknown. To identify such factors in poplar and its fungal associates, we mined existing and de novo tree and fungal transcriptional datasets. We identified co-expressed genes enabling ECM symbiosis at early and mature stages of the interaction. These sets of genes can be divided into general fungal-sensing and ECM-specific components. We highlight the importance of fungal modulation of plant JA-related defenses and the regulation of secretory pathways for ECM compatibi

SUBMITTER: Marques-Galvez JE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12286595 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature