Glyphosate-Modulated Biosynthesis Driving Plant Defense and Species Interactions. (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fuchs, Benjamin; Saikkonen, Kari; Helander, Marjo
• Is Part Of: Trends in plant science. Volume 26:Number 4(2021)
• Page Start: 312
• Page End: 323
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: glyphosate -- plant defense -- plant protection -- phytohormone-crosstalk -- shikimate pathway -- trophic interactions; Botany -- Periodicals; Botanique -- Périodiques; Botany; Periodicals; 580.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2020.11.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-1385

Abstract

Abstract : Glyphosate has become the best-selling herbicide used in agriculture, horticulture, silviculture, and urban environments. It disrupts the shikimate metabolic pathway and thereby blocks the production of aromatic amino acids, which are the basis for several plant metabolites. Glyphosate residues are reported in soils from diverse environments, but the effects on plant physiology and consequences for species interactions are largely unknown. Here, we emphasize the complexity of these physiological processes, and argue that glyphosate residues modulate biosynthetic pathways, individually or interactively, which may affect interactions between plants and heterotrophic organisms. In this way, glyphosate residues can substantially interfere with plant resistance and the attraction of beneficial insects, both of which are essential elements in integrated pest management and healthy ecosystems. Highlights: Residues of glyphosate, a potent herbicide, are increasingly found in diverse environments. Glyphosate residues in soil alter plant physiological processes; however, their effects on plant defense strategies and subsequent species interactions are poorly understood. Glyphosate inhibition of the shikimate pathway affects plant defense-related phytohormones and the phenylpropanoid pathway, the basis for many phytoalexins. Glyphosate affects lipid peroxidation, which alters jasmonic acid levels and green leaf volatiles, in turn, important players mediating many trophic interactions and pollinator attraction. By changing the plant biochemistry, glyphosate residues in soil have the potential to alter plant interactions with herbivores and mutualistic organisms.