Allelopathic Plants: Models for Studying Plant–Interkingdom Interactions. (February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schandry, Niklas; Becker, Claude
• Is Part Of: Trends in plant science. Volume 25:Number 2(2020)
• Page Start: 176
• Page End: 185
• Publication Date: 2020-02
• Subjects: allelochemical -- allelopathy -- benzoxazinoids -- interkingdom interaction -- microbiome -- plant–insect interaction -- plant–microbe interaction -- plant–plant interaction -- root exudates -- synthetic community; Botany -- Periodicals; Botanique -- Périodiques; Botany; Periodicals; 580.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2019.11.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-1385

Abstract

Abstract : Allelopathy is a biochemical interaction between plants in which a donor plant releases secondary metabolites, allelochemicals, that are detrimental to the growth of its neighbours. Traditionally considered as bilateral interactions between two plants, allelopathy has recently emerged as a cross-kingdom process that can influence and be modulated by the other organisms in the plant's environment. Here, we review the current knowledge on plant–interkingdom interactions, with a particular focus on benzoxazinoids. We highlight how allelochemical-producing plants influence not only their plant neighbours but also insects, fungi, and bacteria that live on or around them. We discuss challenges that need to be overcome to study chemical plant–interkingdom interactions, and we propose experimental approaches to address how biotic and chemical processes impact plant health. Highlights: Plants make use of secondary metabolites to communicate with their environment. Allelopathic plants release secondary metabolites to gain a competitive advantage over other plants. Grassy crops release benzoxazinoid compounds, which impact plants, animals, and microbes. Plant–interkingdom interactions, in particular those with soil-dwelling organisms, are key factors in plant health and fitness. Recent findings indicate that research on how allelopathic compounds modulate plant fitness in natural settings needs to integrate interkingdom interactions.