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Impact of sublethal zinc exposure on ectomycorrhizal Laccaria bicolor x poplar symbiosis

Summary

This research examines how a common fungus called Laccaria bicolor helps poplar trees survive in soil contaminated with zinc, a heavy metal. Even though the zinc slows down both the fungus and plant growth, they can still form a beneficial partnership. The study found that the fungus activates specific defense mechanisms to protect itself and the plant from zinc damage, particularly through the production of protective proteins and enzymes that reduce harmful chemical reactions.

Background

Zinc pollution is a widespread environmental problem affecting plant growth and production. Ectomycorrhizal fungi can help tree species mitigate toxicity effects through symbiotic relationships. Understanding how these symbioses respond to metal stress is important for phytoremediation and forest restoration.

Objective

To explore the impact of zinc pollution on Laccaria bicolor and its ectomycorrhizal symbiosis with Populus tremula x alba, examining growth, morphology, symbiosis marker genes, reactive oxygen species scavenging enzymes, and zinc transporters in the presence and absence of a host plant.

Results

The ectomycorrhizal symbiosis was maintained under excess zinc despite reduced fungal and plant growth. Symbiosis marker genes showed zinc sensitivity even without a host plant. Transcriptional responses of ROS scavenging enzymes and zinc transporters were primarily restricted to mycelia in the presence of a host plant.

Conclusion

L. bicolor and P. tremula x alba maintain ectomycorrhizal symbiosis under zinc stress through establishment of new homeostatic equilibria. The presence of a host plant is essential for coordinated physiological responses to zinc pollution, and candidate zinc transporter genes were identified for future functional studies on host protection mechanisms.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Plant Science,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40959553, DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2025.1656580
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