Assessing the potential to harness the microbiome through plant genetics. (August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bergelson, Joy; Brachi, Benjamin; Roux, Fabrice; Vailleau, Fabienne
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in biotechnology. Volume 70(2021)
• Page Start: 167
• Page End: 173
• Publication Date: 2021-08
• Subjects: Biotechnology -- Periodicals; 660.6
• DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.05.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0958-1669

Abstract

Graphical abstract: (1) Among all plant traits, functions and pathways that influence microbial communities some will be discoverable in the lab using mutants. (2) From the functions highlighted in lab studies, a subset will overlap with plant traits variable among genotypes and expressed in realistic field conditions. (3) These traits tend to impact microbial communities associated with plants through a subset of important microbes that in turn influence the rest of the community. (4) Microbial communities impacted by host variation, both directly and indirectly, may influence important components of plant performance (5). Highlights: Diverse host pathways mediate the intimate dialogue with microbiota. Host genetics influences microbial communities through a subset of key microbes. GWAS reveal polygenic architecture consistent with small effects of single mutants. Gene and QTL effects largely depend on the abiotic and biotic environment. Abstract : Microbial communities are influenced by a complex system of host effects, including traits involved in physical barriers, immunity, hormones, metabolisms and nutrient homeostasis. Variation of host control within species is governed by many genes of small effect and is sensitive to biotic and abiotic environments. On the flip side, these host impacts seem targeted on particular microbial species, with that impact percolating through the microbial community. There is not yet evidence that the nature and strength of these interactions differs between fungal and bacterial communities, or among different compartments of the plant. The challenge of deciphering how systems of host traits impact systems of microbial associates is vast but holds promise for developing novel strategies to improve plant health.