Research Topic: fungal-plant interactions

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

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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.

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Fungal symbiont Mycena complements impaired nitrogen utilization in Gastrodia elata and supplies indole-3-acetic acid to facilitate its seed germination

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Gastrodia elata is a special orchid that cannot make its own food and must rely entirely on a fungal partner called Mycena. Scientists discovered that the orchid has lost genes needed to use nitrogen and make growth hormones, while the fungus Mycena has kept these genes. By providing nitrogen and a hormone called auxin, the fungus helps the orchid seeds germinate and grow.

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Newly Designed Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization Probes Reveal Previously Unknown Endophytic Abilities of Tuber magnatum in Herbaceous Plants

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Scientists discovered that Italian white truffles (Tuber magnatum) can live inside the roots of common herbaceous plants like sedges, not just the oak and poplar trees where they are typically found. Using special fluorescent probes and advanced microscopy, researchers confirmed the presence of active truffle threads inside these plants, particularly in spring. This discovery challenges our understanding of how truffles interact with their environment and may explain why truffle cultivation has been difficult, suggesting they employ more diverse survival strategies than previously thought.

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