Study Reveals How Gene Clusters in Rhizobia Enhance Legume Growth
Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign uncover the role of rhizobial genes in promoting plant biomass in legumes like soybeans. By analyzing the genetic interactions in root nodules, the study sheds light on the symbiotic relationship between plants and soil microbes.
In a new study, scientists used genomics, transcriptomics, greenhouse experiments, and advanced statistical methods to gain insight into the chemical interactions in underground root nodules where legumes like soybeans exchange nutrients with rhizobia microbes. The study identified clusters of rhizobial genes that drive greater plant biomass, aiding in optimizing plant growth by improving the rhizosphere.
Plants like soybeans form symbiotic relationships with rhizobia bacteria, where the bacteria convert nitrogen for the plants to use in exchange for carbon-rich sugars produced by the plants. The researchers studied the interaction between Medicago truncatula and Sinorhizobium meliloti strains in a greenhouse experiment, identifying genes that correlated with enhanced plant growth.
The study revealed the complexity of bacterial genetics, including horizontal gene transfer and the role of plasmids in gene clustering. Deleting specified genes confirmed their importance in promoting plant growth. The research provides insights into microbial genetics that impact agricultural productivity and human health.
The study was reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
According to the source: Mirage News.
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