Expression pattern suggests a role of MiR399 in the regulation of the cellular response to local Pi increase during arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis

A journey into the world of small RNAs in the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis is a mutualistic interaction between fungi and most land plants that is underpinned by a bidirectional exchange of nutrients. AM development is a tightly regulated process that encompasses molecular communication for reciprocal recognition, fungal accommodation in root tissues and activation of symbiotic function. As such, a complex network of transcriptional regulation and molecular signaling underlies the cellular and metabolic reprogramming of host cells upon AM fungal colonization. In addition to transcription factors, small RNAs (sRNAs) are emerging as important regulators embedded in the gene network that orchestrates AM development. In addition to controlling cell-autonomous processes, plant sRNAs also function as mobile signals capable of moving to different organs and even to different plants or organisms that interact with plants. AM fungi also produce sRNAs; however, their function in the AM symbiosis remains largely unknown. Here, we discuss the contribution of host sRNAs in the development of AM symbiosis by considering their role in the transcriptional reprogramming of AM fungal colonized cells. We also describe the characteristics of AM fungal-derived sRNAs and emerging evidence for the bidirectional transfer of functional sRNAs between the two partners to mutually modulate gene expression and control the symbiosis.

Argonaute7 (AGO7) optimizes arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal associations and enhances competitive growth in Nicotiana attenuata

Plants interact with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and in doing so, change transcript levels of many miRNAs and their targets. However, the identity of an Argonaute (AGO) that modulates this interaction remains unknown, including in Nicotiana attenuata. We examined how the silencing of NaAGO1/2/4/7/and 10 by RNAi influenced plant-competitive ability under low-P conditions when they interact with AMF. Furthermore, the roles of seven miRNAs, predicted to regulate signaling and phosphate homeostasis, were evaluated by transient overexpression. Only NaAGO7 silencing by RNAi (irAGO7) significantly reduced the competitive ability under P-limited conditions, without changes in leaf or root development, or juvenile-to-adult phase transitions. In plants growing competitively in the glasshouse, irAGO7 roots were over-colonized with AMF, but they accumulated significantly less phosphate and the expression of their AMF-specific transporters was deregulated. Furthermore, the AMF-induced miRNA levels were inversely regulated with the abundance of their target transcripts. miRNA overexpression consistently decreased plant fitness, with four of seven-tested miRNAs reducing mycorrhization rates, and two increasing mycorrhization rates. Overexpression of Na-miR473 and Na-miRNA-PN59 downregulated targets in GA, ethylene, and fatty acid metabolism pathways. We infer that AGO7 optimizes competitive ability and colonization by regulating miRNA levels and signaling pathways during a plant's interaction with AMF.

Integrated miRNA-mRNA analysis reveals candidate miRNA family regulating arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis of Poncirus trifoliata

Over 70% land plants live in mutualistic symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, and maintenance of symbiosis requires transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation. The former has been widely studied, whereas the latter mediated by symbiotic microRNAs (miRNAs) remains obscure, especially in woody plants. Here, we performed high-throughput sequencing of the perennial woody citrus plant Poncirus trifoliata and identified 3750 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 42 miRNAs (DEmiRs) upon AM fungal colonization. By analyzing cis-regulatory elements in the promoters of the DEGs, we predicted 329 key AM transcription factors (TFs). A miRNA-mRNA regulatory network was then constructed by integrating these data. Several candidate miRNA families of P. trifoliata were identified whose members target known symbiotic genes, such as miR167h-AMT2;3 and miR156e-EXO70I, or key TFs, such as miR164d-NAC and miR477a-GRAS, thus are involved in AM symbiotic processes of fungal colonization, arbuscule development, nutrient exchange and phytohormone signaling. Finally, analysis of selected miRNA family revealed that a miR159b conserved in mycorrhizal plant species and a Poncirus-specific miR477a regulate AM symbiosis. The role of miR477a was likely to target GRAS family gene RAD1 in citrus plants. Our results not only revealed that miRNA-mRNA network analysis, especially miRNA-TF analysis, is effective in identifying miRNA family regulating AM symbiosis, but also shed light on miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulation of AM symbiosis in woody citrus plants.

The good, the bad, and the phosphate: regulation of beneficial and detrimental plant-microbe interactions by the plant phosphate status

Phosphate (P_i ) is indispensable for life on this planet. However, for sessile land plants it is poorly accessible. Therefore, plants have developed a variety of strategies for enhanced acquisition and recycling of P_i . The mechanisms to cope with P_i limitation as well as direct uptake of P_i from the substrate via the root epidermis are regulated by a conserved P_i starvation response (PSR) system based on a family of key transcription factors (TFs) and their inhibitors. Furthermore, plants obtain P_i indirectly through symbiosis with mycorrhiza fungi, which employ their extensive hyphal network to drastically increase the soil volume that can be explored by plants for P_i . Besides mycorrhizal symbiosis, there is also a variety of other interactions with epiphytic, endophytic, and rhizospheric microbes that can indirectly or directly influence plant P_i uptake. It was recently discovered that the PSR pathway is involved in the regulation of genes that promote formation and maintenance of AM symbiosis. Furthermore, the PSR system influences plant immunity and can also be a target of microbial manipulation. It is known for decades that the nutritional status of plants influences the outcome of plant-microbe interactions. The first molecular explanations for these observations are now emerging.

Effect of mycorrhizae on phosphate fertilization efficiency and maize growth under field conditions

Phosphorus (P) is a plant macronutrient that is indispensable for maize (Zea mays L.) production. However, P is difficult to manage in weathered soils, and its fertilization practice has low efficiency because it becomes unavailable for absorption by plant roots. Symbiosis of plants with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi increases plant growth and enhances P uptake from the soil that is not directly available to the roots. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine how inoculation with Rhizophagus intraradices and phosphate fertilization interacts and influences the development and productivity of second-crop maize. The experiment was conducted in Selvíria, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, in 2019 and 2020, both in a Typic Haplorthox. A randomized block design in subdivided plots was used for the phosphate application during crop sowing (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% concentrations of the recommended level), and the secondary treatments were the doses of mycorrhizal inoculant (0, 60, 120 and 180 g ha-1) applied to the seed using a dry powder inoculant containing 20,800 infectious propagules per gram of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus R. intraradices. Only in the first year of the experiment, inoculation and phosphate fertilization promoted benefits to the maize crop, indicating potential to increase yield.

MtEIN2 affects nitrate uptake and accumulation of photosynthetic pigments under phosphate and nitrate deficiency in Medicago truncatula

Ethylene (ET) controls many facets of plant growth and development under abiotic and biotic stresses. MtEIN2, as a critical element of the ET signaling pathway, is essential in biotic interactions. However, the role of MtEIN2 in responding to abiotic stress, such as combined nutrient deficiency, is less known. To assess the role of ethylene signaling in nutrient uptake, we manipulated nitrate (NO₃ ^- ) and phosphate (Pi) availability for wild-type (WT) and the ethylene-insensitive (MtEIN2-defective) mutant, sickle, in Medicago truncatula. We measured leaf biomass and photosynthetic pigments in WT and sickle to identify conditions leading to different responses in both genotypes. Under combined NO₃ ^- and Pi deficiency, sickle plants had higher chlorophyll and carotenoid contents than WT plants. Under these conditions, nitrate content and gene expression levels of nitrate transporters were higher in the sickle mutant than in the WT. This led to the conclusion that MtEIN2 is associated with nitrate uptake and the content of photosynthetic pigments under combined Pi and NO₃ ^- deficiency in M. truncatula. We conclude that ethylene perception plays a critical role in regulating the nutrient status of plants.

Plants Recruit Peptides and Micro RNAs to Regulate Nutrient Acquisition from Soil and Symbiosis

Plants engage in symbiotic relationships with soil microorganisms to overcome nutrient limitations in their environment. Among the best studied endosymbiotic interactions in plants are those with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and N-fixing bacteria called rhizobia. The mechanisms regulating plant nutrient homeostasis and acquisition involve small mobile molecules such as peptides and micro RNAs (miRNAs). A large number of CLE (CLAVATA3/EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION-RELATED) and CEP (C-TERMINALLY ENCODED PEPTIDE) peptide hormones as well as certain miRNAs have been reported to differentially respond to the availability of essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Interestingly, a partially overlapping pool of these molecules is involved in plant responses to root colonization by rhizobia and AM fungi, as well as mineral nutrition. The crosstalk between root endosymbiosis and nutrient availability has been subject of intense investigations, and new insights in locally or systemically mobile molecules in nutrient- as well as symbiosis-related signaling continue to arise. Focusing on the key roles of peptides and miRNAs, we review the mechanisms that shape plant responses to nutrient limitation and regulate the establishment of symbiotic associations with beneficial soil microorganisms.

Reprogramming of Fundamental miRNA and Gene Expression during the Barley-Piriformospora indica Interaction

The interactions between plants and microorganisms, which are widely present in the microbial-dominated rhizosphere, have been studied. This association is highly beneficial to the organisms involved, as plants benefit soil microorganisms by providing them with metabolites, while microorganisms promote plant growth and development by promoting nutrient uptake and/or protecting the plant from biotic and abiotic stresses. Piriformospora indica, an endophytic fungus of Sebacinales, colonizes the roots of a wide range of host plants and establishes various benefits for the plants. In this work, an interaction between barley and the P. indica was established to elucidate microRNA (miRNA)-based regulatory changes in miRNA profiles and gene expression that occurred during the symbiosis. Growth promotion and vigorous root development were confirmed in barley colonized by P. indica. The genome-wide expression profile analysis of miRNAs in barley root showed that 7,798,928, 6,418,039 and 7,136,192 clean reads were obtained from the libraries of mock, 3 dai and 7 dai roots, respectively. Sequencing of the barley genome yielded in 81 novel miRNA and 450 differently expressed genes (DEGs). Additionally, 11, 24, 6 differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) in barley were found in the three comparison groups, including 3 dai vs. mock, 7 dai vs. mock and 7 dai vs. 3 dai, respectively. The predicted target genes of these miRNAs are mainly involved in transcription, cell division, auxin signal perception and transduction, photosynthesis and hormone stimulus. Transcriptome analysis of P. indica identified 667 and 594 differentially expressed genes (DEG) at 3 dai and 7 dai. Annotation and GO (Gene Ontology) analysis indicated that the DEGs with the greatest changes were concentrated in oxidoreductase activity, ion transmembrane transporter activity. It implies that reprogramming of fundamental miRNA and gene expression occurs both in barley and P. indica. Analysis of global changes in miRNA profiles of barley colonized with P. indica revealed that several putative endogenous barley miRNAs expressed upon colonization belonging to known micro RNA families involved in growth and developmental regulation.

Global transcriptomic analysis reveals candidate genes associated with different phosphorus acquisition strategies among soybean varieties

Introduction

Soybean adapts to phosphorus-deficient soils through three important phosphorus acquisition strategies, namely altered root conformation, exudation of carboxylic acids, and symbiosis with clumping mycorrhizal fungi. However, the trade-offs and regulatory mechanisms of these three phosphorus acquisition strategies in soybean have not been researched.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the responses of ten different soybean varieties to low soil phosphorus availability by determining biomass, phosphorus accumulation, root morphology, exudation, and mycorrhizal colonization rate. Furthermore, the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying root phosphorus acquisition strategies were examined among varieties with different low-phosphorus tolerance using transcriptome sequencing and weighted gene co-expression network analysis.

Results and discussion

The results showed that two types of phosphorus acquisition strategies-"outsourcing" and "do-it-yourself"-were employed by soybean varieties under low phosphorus availability. The "do-it-yourself" varieties, represented by QD11, Zh30, and Sd, obtained sufficient phosphorus by increasing their root surface area and secreting carboxylic acids. In contrast, the "outsourcing" varieties, represented by Zh301, Zh13, and Hc6, used increased symbiosis with mycorrhizae to obtain phosphorus owing to their large root diameters. Transcriptome analysis showed that the direction of acetyl-CoA metabolism could be the dividing line between the two strategies of soybean selection. ERF1 and WRKY1 may be involved in the regulation of phosphorus acquisition strategies for soybeans grown under low P environments. These findings will enhance our understanding of phosphorus acquisition strategies in soybeans. In addition, they will facilitate the development of breeding strategies that are more flexible to accommodate a variety of production scenarios in agriculture under low phosphorus environments.

The mycorrhizal symbiosis alters the plant defence strategy in a model legume plant

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis modulates plant-herbivore interactions. Still, how it shapes the overall plant defence strategy and the mechanisms involved remain unclear. We investigated how AM symbiosis simultaneously modulates plant resistance and tolerance to a shoot herbivore, and explored the underlying mechanisms. Bioassays with Medicago truncatula plants were used to study the effect of the AM fungus Rhizophagus irregularis on plant resistance and tolerance to Spodoptera exigua herbivory. By performing molecular and chemical analyses, we assessed the impact of AM symbiosis on herbivore-triggered phosphate (Pi)- and jasmonate (JA)-related responses. Upon herbivory, AM symbiosis led to an increased leaf Pi content by boosting the mycorrhizal Pi-uptake pathway. This enhanced both plant tolerance and herbivore performance. AM symbiosis counteracted the herbivore-triggered JA burst, reducing plant resistance. To disentangle the role of the mycorrhizal Pi-uptake pathway in the plant's response to herbivory, we used the mutant line ha1-2, impaired in the H⁺ -ATPase gene HA1, which is essential for Pi-uptake via the mycorrhizal pathway. We found that mycorrhiza-triggered enhancement of herbivore performance was compromised in ha1-2 plants. AM symbiosis thus affects the defence pattern of M. truncatula by altering resistance and tolerance simultaneously. We propose that the mycorrhizal Pi-uptake pathway is involved in the modulation of the plant defence strategy.

Roles of non-coding RNAs in the hormonal and nutritional regulation in nodulation and nitrogen fixation

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation is an important component in the nitrogen cycle and is a potential solution for sustainable agriculture. It is the result of the interactions between the plant host, mostly restricted to legume species, and the rhizobial symbiont. From the first encounter between the host and the symbiont to eventual successful nitrogen fixation, there are delicate processes involved, such as nodule organogenesis, rhizobial infection thread progression, differentiation of the bacteroid, deregulation of the host defense systems, and reallocation of resources. All these processes are tightly regulated at different levels. Recent evidence revealed that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), participate in these processes by controlling the transcription and translation of effector genes. In general, ncRNAs are functional transcripts without translation potential and are important gene regulators. MiRNAs, negative gene regulators, bind to the target mRNAs and repress protein production by causing the cleavage of mRNA and translational silencing. LncRNAs affect the formation of chromosomal loops, DNA methylation, histone modification, and alternative splicing to modulate gene expression. Both lncRNAs and circRNAs could serve as target mimics of miRNA to inhibit miRNA functions. In this review, we summarized and discussed the current understanding of the roles of ncRNAs in legume nodulation and nitrogen fixation in the root nodule, mainly focusing on their regulation of hormone signal transduction, the autoregulation of nodulation (AON) pathway and nutrient homeostasis in nodules. Unraveling the mediation of legume nodulation by ncRNAs will give us new insights into designing higher-performance leguminous crops for sustainable agriculture.

Differentially reset transcriptomes and genome bias response orchestrate wheat response to phosphate deficiency

Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient for all organisms. Phosphate (Pi) deficiency reduces grain yield and quality in wheat. Understanding how wheat responds to Pi deficiency at the global transcriptional level remains limited. We revisited the available RNA-seq transcriptome from Pi-starved wheat roots and shoots subjected to Pi starvation. Genome-wide transcriptome resetting was observed under Pi starvation, with a total of 917 and 2338 genes being differentially expressed in roots and shoots, respectively. Chromosomal distribution analysis of the gene triplets and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) revealed that the D genome displayed genome induction bias and, specifically, the chromosome 2D might be a key contributor to Pi-limiting triggered gene expression response. Alterations in multiple metabolic pathways pertaining to secondary metabolites, transcription factors and Pi uptake-related genes were evidenced. This study provides genomic insight and the dynamic landscape of the transcriptional changes contributing to the hexaploid wheat during Pi starvation. The outcomes of this study and the follow-up experiments have the potential to assist the development of Pi-efficient wheat cultivars.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) pho2 mutant plants hyperaccumulate phosphate

In this article, we describe a set of novel alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) plants that hyper-accumulate Phosphate ion (Pi) at levels 3- to 6-fold higher than wild-type. This alfalfa germplasm will have practical applications reclaiming Pi from contaminated or enriched soil or be used in conservation buffer strips to protect waterways from Pi run-off. Hyper-accumulating alfalfa plants were generated by targeted mutagenesis of PHOSPHATE2 (PHO2) using newly created CRISPR/Cas9 reagents and an improved mutant screening strategy. PHO2 encodes a ubiquitin conjugating E2 enzyme (UBC24) previously characterized in Arabidopsis thaliana, Medicago truncatula, and Oryza sativa. Mutations of PHO2 disrupt Pi homeostasis resulting in Pi hyper-accumulation. Successful CRISPR/Cas9 editing of PHO2 demonstrates that this is an efficient mutagenesis tool in alfalfa despite its complex autotetraploid genome structure. Arabidopsis and M. truncatula ortholog genes were used to identify PHO2 haplotypes in outcrossing tetraploid M. sativa with the aim of generating heritable mutations in both PHO2-like genes (PHO2-B and PHO2-C). After delivery of the reagent and regeneration from transformed leaf explants, plants with mutations in all haplotypes of PHO2-B and PHO2-C were identified. These plants were evaluated for morphology, Pi accumulation, heritable transmission of targeted mutations, segregation of mutant haplotypes and removal of T-DNA(s). The Agrobacterium-mediated transformation assay and gene editing reagents reported here were also evaluated for further optimization for future alfalfa functional genomic studies.

A SPX domain-containing phosphate transporter from Rhizophagus irregularis handles phosphate homeostasis at symbiotic interface of arbuscular mycorrhizas

Reciprocal symbiosis of > 70% of terrestrial vascular plants with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi provides the fungi with fatty acids and sugars. In return, AM fungi facilitate plant phosphate (Pi) uptake from soil. However, how AM fungi handle Pi transport and homeostasis at the symbiotic interface of AM symbiosis is poorly understood. Here, we identify an SPX (SYG1/Pho81/XPR1) domain-containing phosphate transporter, RiPT7 from Rhizophagus irregularis. To characterize the RiPT7 transporter, we combined subcellular localization and heterologous expression studies in yeasts with reverse genetics approaches during the in planta phase. The results show that RiPT7 is conserved across fungal species and expressed in the intraradical mycelia. It is expressed in the arbuscules, intraradical hyphae and vesicles, independently of Pi availability. The plasma membrane-localized RiPT7 facilitates bidirectional Pi transport, depending on Pi gradient across the plasma membrane, whereas the SPX domain of RiPT7 inhibits Pi transport activity and mediates the vacuolar targeting of RiPT7 in yeast in response to Pi starvation. Importantly, RiPT7 silencing hampers arbuscule development of R. irregularis and symbiotic Pi delivery under medium- to low-Pi conditions. Collectively, our findings reveal a role for RiPT7 in fine-tuning of Pi homeostasis across the fungal membrane to maintain the AM development.

Leaf phosphorus fractionation in rice to understand internal phosphorus-use efficiency

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Phosphorus (P) availability is often limiting for rice (Oryza sativa) production. Improving internal P-use efficiency (PUE) is crucial to sustainable food production, particularly in low-input systems. A critical aspect of PUE in plants, and one that remains poorly understood, is the investment of leaf P in different chemical P fractions (nucleic acid-P, lipid-P, inorganic-P, metabolite-P and residual-P). The overarching objective of this study was to understand how these key P fractions influence PUE.

METHODS

Three high-PUE and two low-PUE rice genotypes were grown in hydroponics with contrasting P supplies. We measured PUE, total P, P fractions, photosynthesis and biomass.

KEY RESULTS

Low investment in lipid-P was strongly associated with increased photosynthetic PUE (PPUE), achieved by reducing total leaf P concentration while maintaining rapid photosynthetic rates. All low-P plants exhibited a low investment in inorganic-P and lipid-P, but not nucleic acid-P. In addition, whole-plant PUE was strongly associated with reduced total P concentration, increased biomass and increased preferential allocation of resources to the youngest mature leaves.

CONCLUSIONS

Lipid remodelling has been shown in rice before, but we show for the first time that reduced lipid-P investment improves PUE in rice without reducing photosynthesis. This presents a novel pathway for increasing PUE by targeting varieties with reduced lipid-P investment. This will benefit rice production in low-P soils and in areas where fertilizer use is limited, improving global food security by reducing P fertilizer demands and food production costs.

Non-Coding RNAs in Response to Drought Stress

Drought stress causes changes in the morphological, physiological, biochemical and molecular characteristics of plants. The response to drought in different plants may vary from avoidance, tolerance and escape to recovery from stress. This response is genetically programmed and regulated in a very complex yet synchronized manner. The crucial genetic regulations mediated by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as game-changers in modulating the plant responses to drought and other abiotic stresses. The ncRNAs interact with their targets to form potentially subtle regulatory networks that control multiple genes to determine the overall response of plants. Many long and small drought-responsive ncRNAs have been identified and characterized in different plant varieties. The miRNA-based research is better documented, while lncRNA and transposon-derived RNAs are relatively new, and their cellular role is beginning to be understood. In this review, we have compiled the information on the categorization of non-coding RNAs based on their biogenesis and function. We also discuss the available literature on the role of long and small non-coding RNAs in mitigating drought stress in plants.

tae-miR399-UBC24 Module Enhances Freezing Tolerance in Winter Wheat via a CBF Signaling Pathway

Although the regulation of Pi homeostasis by miR399 has been studied in various plant species, its underlying molecular mechanism in response to freezing stress is still poorly understood. In this work, we found that the expression of tae-miR399 and its target gene TaUBC24 in the tillering nodes of the strong cold-resistant winter wheat cultivar Dongnongdongmai1 (Dn1) was not only significantly altered after severe winters but also responsive to short-term freezing stress. TaUBC24 physically interacted with TaICE1. Enhanced freezing tolerance was observed for tae-miR399-overexpressing Arabidopsis lines. Under freezing stress, overexpression of tae-miR399 ultimately decreased the expression of AtUBC24, inhibiting the degradation of AtICE1, which increased the expression of genes involved in the CBF signaling pathway and starch metabolism and promoted the activities of antioxidant enzymes. These results will improve our understanding of the molecular mechanism through which the miR399-UBC24 module plays a cardinal role in regulating plant freezing stress tolerance through mediation of downstream pathways.

Noncoding-RNA-Mediated Regulation in Response to Macronutrient Stress in Plants

Macronutrient elements including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S) are required in relatively large and steady amounts for plant growth and development. Deficient or excessive supply of macronutrients from external environments may trigger a series of plant responses at phenotypic and molecular levels during the entire life cycle. Among the intertwined molecular networks underlying plant responses to macronutrient stress, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), mainly microRNAs (miRNAs) and long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), may serve as pivotal regulators for the coordination between nutrient supply and plant demand, while the responsive ncRNA-target module and the interactive mechanism vary among elements and species. Towards a comprehensive identification and functional characterization of nutrient-responsive ncRNAs and their downstream molecules, high-throughput sequencing has produced massive omics data for comparative expression profiling as a first step. In this review, we highlight the recent findings of ncRNA-mediated regulation in response to macronutrient stress, with special emphasis on the large-scale sequencing efforts for screening out candidate nutrient-responsive ncRNAs in plants, and discuss potential improvements in theoretical study to provide better guidance for crop breeding practices.

The Phosphate Starvation Response System: Its Role in the Regulation of Plant-Microbe Interactions

Phosphate (Pi) deficiency is a major factor limiting plant productivity worldwide. Land plants have evolved different strategies to cope with Pi deficiency. For instance, plants activate the so-called Pi starvation response (PSR) system, which is regulated by the transcription factor Phosphate Starvation Response1 (PHR1), to adjust plant growth and metabolic activity accordingly. Additionally, land plants can also establish mutualistic associations with soil microbes able to solubilize Pi from plant-inaccessible soil complexes and to transfer it to the host plant. A growing body of evidence indicates that PHR1 and the PSR system not only regulate the plant responses to Pi deficiency in an abiotic context, but they are also crucial for plants to properly interact with beneficial soil microbes able to provide them with soluble Pi. Recent evidence indicates that PHR1 and the PSR system contribute to shaping the plant-associated microbiota through the modulation of the plant immune system. The PSR and immune system outputs are tightly integrated by PHR1. Here, we review how plant host Pi status influences the establishment of the mutualistic association with soil microbes. We also highlight the role of PHR1 and the PSR system in shaping both the root microbiome and plant responses to Pi deficiency.

Differentially expressed microRNAs that target functional genes in mature soybean nodules

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of biological functions in plants. To find out what roles miRNAs play in regulating symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], we identified high-confidence differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs from uninoculated roots (UR), rhizobium-inoculated roots (IR), and nodules (NODs) of soybean by robust small RNA sequencing (sRNA-seq). Based on their predicted target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), the expression profiles of some of these DE miRNAs could be linked to nodule functions. In particular, several miRNAs associated with nutrient transportation genes were differentially expressed in IRs and mature NODs. MiR399b, specifically, was highly induced in IRs and NODs, as well as by inorganic phosphate (Pi) starvation. In composite soybean plants overexpressing miR399b, PHOSPHATE2 (PHO2), a known target of miR399b that inhibits the activities of high-affinity Pi transporters, was strongly repressed. In addition, the overexpression of miR399b in the roots of transgenic composite plants significantly improved whole-plant Pi and ureide concentrations and the overall growth in terms of leaf node numbers and whole-plant dry weight. Our findings suggest that the induction of miR399b in NODs could enhance nitrogen fixation and soybean growth, possibly via improving Pi uptake to achieve a better Pi-nitrogen balance to promote SNF in nodules.

Independent recurrent evolution of MICRORNA genes converging onto similar non-canonical organisation across green plant lineages is driven by local and segmental duplication events in species, family and lineages

The relationship between evolutionary history, organisation and transcriptional regulation of genes are intrinsically linked. These have been well studied in canonically organised protein-coding genes but not of MIRNAs. In the present study, we investigated the non-canonical arrangement of MIRNAs across taxonomic boundaries from algae to angiosperms employing a combination of genome organization, phylogeny and synteny. We retrieved the complete dataset of MIRNA from twenty-five species to identify and classify based on organisational patterns. The median size of cluster was between 2-5 kb and between 1-20 % of all MIRNAs are organized in head-to-head (with bidirectional promoter), head-to-tail (tandem), and overlapping manner. Although majority of the clusters are composed of MIRNA homologs, 25% of all clusters comprises of non-homologous genes with a potential of generating functional and regulatory complexity. A comparison of phylogeny and organizational patterns revealed that multiple independent events, some of which are species-specific, and some ancient, in different lineages, are responsible for non-canonical organization. Detailed investigation of MIR395 family across the plants revealed a complex origin of non-canonical arrangement through ancient and recent, segmental and local duplications; analysis of MIR399 family revealed major expansion occurred prior to monocot-dicot split, with few lineage-specific events. Evolution of "convergent" organization pattern of non-canonical arrangement originating from independent loci through recurrent event highlights our poor understanding of evolutionary process of MIRNA genes. The present investigation thus paves way for comparative functional genomics to understand the role of non-canonical organization on transcriptional regulation and regulatory diversity in MIRNA gene families.

Analysis of small RNA populations generated in peanut leaves after exogenous application of dsRNA and dsDNA targeting aflatoxin synthesis genes

Previously, we have shown that RNA interference (RNAi) can prevent aflatoxin accumulation in transformed peanuts. To explore aflatoxin control by exogenous delivery of double-strand RNA (dsRNA) it is necessary to understand the generation of small RNA (sRNA) populations. We sequenced 12 duplicate sRNA libraries of in-vitro-grown peanut plants, 24 and 48 h after exogenous application of five gene fragments (RNAi-5x) related to aflatoxin biosynthesis in Aspergillus flavus. RNAi-5x was applied either as double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) or RNAi plasmid DNA (dsDNA). Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) derived from RNAi-5x were significantly more abundant at 48 h than at 24 h, and the majority mapped to the fragment of aflatoxin efflux-pump gene. RNAi-5x-specific siRNAs were significantly, three to fivefold, more abundant in dsDNA than dsRNA treatments. Further examination of known micro RNAs related to disease-resistance, showed significant down-regulation of miR399 and up-regulation of miR482 in leaves treated with dsDNA compared to the control. These results show that sRNA sequencing is useful to compare exogenous RNAi delivery methods on peanut plants, and to analyze the efficacy of molecular constructs to generate siRNAs against specific gene targets. This work lays the foundation for non-transgenic delivery of RNAi in controlling aflatoxins in peanut.

Imbalanced Regulation of Fungal Nutrient Transports According to Phosphate Availability in a Symbiocosm Formed by Poplar, Sorghum, and Rhizophagus irregularis

In arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis, key components of nutrient uptake and exchange are specialized transporters that facilitate nutrient transport across membranes. As phosphate is a nutrient and a regulator of nutrient exchanges, we investigated the effect of P availability to extraradical mycelium (ERM) on both plant and fungus transcriptomes and metabolomes in a symbiocosm system. By perturbing nutrient exchanges under the control of P, our objectives were to identify new fungal genes involved in nutrient transports, and to characterize in which extent the fungus differentially modulates its metabolism when interacting with two different plant species. We performed transportome analysis on the ERM and intraradical mycelium of the AM fungus Rhizophagus irregularis associated to Populus trichocarpa and Sorghum bicolor under high and low P availability in ERM, using quantitative RT-PCR and Illumina mRNA-sequencing. We observed that mycorrhizal symbiosis induces expression of specific phosphate and ammonium transporters in both plants. Furthermore, we identified new AM-inducible transporters and showed that a subset of phosphate transporters is regulated independently of symbiotic nutrient exchange. mRNA-Sequencing revealed that the fungal transportome was not similarly regulated in the two host plant species according to P availability. Mirroring this effect, many plant carbohydrate transporters were down-regulated in P. trichocarpa mycorrhizal root tissue. Metabolome analysis revealed further that AM root colonization led to a modification of root primary metabolism under low and high P availability and to a decrease of primary metabolite pools in general. Moreover, the down regulation of the sucrose transporters suggests that the plant limits carbohydrate long distance transport (i.e. from shoot to the mycorrhizal roots). By simultaneous uptake/reuptake of nutrients from the apoplast at the biotrophic interface, plant and fungus are both able to control reciprocal nutrient fluxes.

Si vis pacem para bellum: A prospective in silico analysis of miRNA-based plant defenses against fungal infections

Fungal pathogens are an important threat for plant crops, being responsible for important reductions of production yields and a consequent economic impact. Among the molecular mediators of fungal infections of plant crops, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been described as relevant players either in the plant immune responses and mechanism of defense or in the colonization of plant tissues by fungi. Acting as a mechanism of defense, some plant small ncRNAs such as miRNAs and tasiRNAs can be secreted by cells and directed to target the transcriptome of pathogenic fungi, triggering an RNAi-like interference mechanism able to silence the expression of specific fungal genes. The detailed knowledge of this mechanism of defense against fungal pathogens could open new possibilities for the protection of human important crops. To infer putative functional relationships mediated by ncRNA communication, we performed a prospective analysis to determine potential plant miRNAs able to target the genome of fungal pathogens, which resulted in the description of enriched specific plant miRNA families and their putative fungal targets that could be further studied in the context of plant-fungi interactions. The expression profile of specific members of the enriched miRNAs families showed an infection-dependent behavior in laboratory models of infection. Plant miRNAs showed sequence complementarity with coding genes of their cognate fungal pathogens. Plant miRNAs could potentially target fungal genes belonging to functional families related to stress response, membrane architecture, vacuolar transport, membrane traffic, and anabolic processes. Families of specific infection-responsive miRNAs are included in the putative plant defense mechanism.

The effects of soil phosphorus and zinc availability on plant responses to mycorrhizal fungi: a physiological and molecular assessment

The positive effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been demonstrated for plant biomass, and zinc (Zn) and phosphorus (P) uptake, under soil nutrient deficiency. Additionally, a number of Zn and P transporter genes are affected by mycorrhizal colonisation or implicated in the mycorrhizal pathway of uptake. However, a comprehensive study of plant physiology and gene expression simultaneously, remains to be undertaken. Medicago truncatula was grown at different soil P and Zn availabilities, with or without inoculation of Rhizophagus irregularis. Measures of biomass, shoot elemental concentrations, mycorrhizal colonisation, and expression of Zn transporter (ZIP) and phosphate transporter (PT) genes in the roots, were taken. Mycorrhizal plants had a greater tolerance of both P and Zn soil deficiency; there was also evidence of AMF protecting plants against excessive Zn accumulation at high soil Zn. The expression of all PT genes was interactive with both P availability and mycorrhizal colonisation. MtZIP5 expression was induced both by AMF and soil Zn deficiency, while MtZIP2 was down-regulated in mycorrhizal plants, and up-regulated with increasing soil Zn concentration. These findings provide the first comprehensive physiological and molecular picture of plant-mycorrhizal fungal symbiosis with regard to soil P and Zn availability. Mycorrhizal fungi conferred tolerance to soil Zn and P deficiency and this could be linked to the induction of the ZIP transporter gene MtZIP5, and the PT gene MtPT4.

A Phosphate-Dependent Requirement for Transcription Factors IPD3 and IPD3L During Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis in Medicago truncatula

During arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis, activation of a symbiosis signaling pathway induces gene expression necessary for accommodation of AM fungi. Here, we focus on pathway components Medicago truncatula INTERACTING PROTEIN OF DOES NOT MAKE INFECTIONS 3 (IPD3) and IPD3 LIKE (IPD3L), which are potential orthologs of Lotus japonicus CYCLOPS, a transcriptional regulator essential for AM symbiosis. In the double mutant ipd3 ipd3l, hyphal entry through the epidermis and overall colonization levels are reduced relative to the wild type but fully developed arbuscules are present in the cortex. In comparison with the wild type, colonization of ipd3 ipd3l is acutely sensitive to higher phosphate levels in the growth medium, with a disproportionate decrease in epidermal penetration, overall colonization, and symbiotic gene expression. When constitutively expressed in ipd3 ipd3l, an autoactive DOES NOT MAKE INFECTIONS 3 induces the expression of transcriptional regulators REDUCED ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZA 1 and REQUIRED for ARBUSCULE DEVELOPMENT 1, providing a possible avenue for arbuscule development in the absence of IPD3 and IPD3L. An increased sensitivity of ipd3 ipd3l to GA₃ suggests an involvement of DELLA. The data reveal partial redundancy in the symbiosis signaling pathway, which may ensure robust signaling in low-phosphorus environments, while IPD3 and IPD3L maintain signaling in higher-phosphorus environments. The latter may buffer the pathway from short-term variation in phosphorus levels encountered by roots during growth in heterogeneous soil environments.

Identification of Long Non-Coding RNAs and the Regulatory Network Responsive to Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Colonization in Maize Roots

Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as vital regulators of many biological processes in animals and plants. However, to our knowledge no investigations on plant lncRNAs which respond to arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi have been reported thus far. In this study, maize roots colonized with AM fungus were analyzed by strand-specific RNA-Seq to identify AM fungi-responsive lncRNAs and construct an associated regulatory network. A total of 1837 differentially expressed protein coding genes (DEGs) were identified from maize roots with Rhizophagus irregularis inoculation. Many AM fungi-responsive genes were homologs to MtPt4, STR, STR2, MtFatM, and enriched pathways such as fatty acid biosynthesis, response to phosphate starvation, and nitrogen metabolism are consistent with previous studies. In total, 5941 lncRNAs were identified, of which more than 3000 were new. Of those, 63 lncRNAs were differentially expressed. The putative target genes of differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) were mainly related to phosphate ion transmembrane transport, cellular response to potassium ion starvation, and lipid catabolic processes. Regulatory network analysis showed that DELs might be involved in the regulation of bidirectional nutrient exchange between plant and AM fungi as mimicry of microRNA targets. The results of this study can broaden our knowledge on the interaction between plant and AM fungi.

Phytohormones, miRNAs, and peptide signals integrate plant phosphorus status with arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis

Most land plant species engage in a beneficial interaction with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in order to increase mineral nutrient acquisition, in particular the major macronutrient phosphorus (P). Initiation, development, and maintenance of the symbiosis are largely under the control of the host plant and strongly influenced by the plants' P status. Recent advances reveal that phytohormones, microRNAs, and secreted peptides all regulate and integrate development of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis with the P status of the plant. This occurs through a complex, multi-layered signaling network with crosstalk between phosphate (Pi) starvation signaling pathways and AM symbiosis signaling, and also via direct effects on the AM fungal symbiont. Multiple checkpoints allow the plant to fine-tune symbiosis based on its P status.

Identification of microRNAS differentially regulated by water deficit in relation to mycorrhizal treatment in wheat

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are soil microrganisms that establish symbiosis with plants positively influencing their resistance to abiotic stresses. The aim of this work was to identify wheat miRNAs differentially regulated by water deficit conditions in presence or absence of AMF treatment. Small RNA libraries were constructed for both leaf and root tissues considering four conditions: control (irrigated) or water deficit in presence/absence of mycorrhizal (AMF) treatment. A total of 12 miRNAs were significantly regulated by water deficit in leaves: five in absence and seven in presence of AMF treatment. In roots, three miRNAs were water deficit-modulated in absence of mycorrhizal treatment while six were regulated in presence of it. The most represented miRNA family was miR167 that was regulated by water deficit in both leaf and root tissues. Interestingly, miR827-5p was differentially regulated in leaves in the absence of mycorrhizal treatment while it was water deficit-modulated in roots irrespective of AMF treatment. In roots, water deficit repressed miR827-5p, miR394, miR6187, miR167e-3p, and miR9666b-3p affecting transcription, RNA synthesis, protein synthesis, and protein modifications. In leaves, mycorrhizae modulated miR5384-3p and miR156e-3p affecting trafficking and cell redox homeostasis. DNA replication and transcription regulation should be targeted by the repression of miR1432-5p and miR166h-3p. This work provided interesting insights into the post-transcriptional mechanisms of wheat responses to water deficit in relation to mycorrhizal symbiosis.

Mechanisms and Impact of Symbiotic Phosphate Acquisition

Phosphorous is important for life but often limiting for plants. The symbiotic pathway of phosphate uptake via arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) is evolutionarily ancient and today occurs in natural and agricultural ecosystems alike. Plants capable of this symbiosis can obtain up to all of the phosphate from symbiotic fungi, and this offers potential means to develop crops less dependent on unsustainable P fertilizers. Here, we review the mechanisms and insights gleaned from the fine-tuned signal exchanges that orchestrate the intimate mutualistic symbiosis between plants and AMF. As the currency of trade, nutrients have signaling functions beyond being the nutritional goal of mutualism. We propose that such signaling roles and metabolic reprogramming may represent commitments for a mutualistic symbiosis that act across the stages of symbiosis development.

Identification of Populus Small RNAs Responsive to Mutualistic Interactions With Mycorrhizal Fungi, Laccaria bicolor and Rhizophagus irregularis

Ecto- and endo-mycorrhizal colonization of Populus roots have a positive impact on the overall tree health and growth. A complete molecular understanding of these interactions will have important implications for increasing agricultural or forestry sustainability using plant:microbe-based strategies. These beneficial associations entail extensive morphological changes orchestrated by the genetic reprogramming in both organisms. In this study, we performed a comparative analysis of two Populus species (Populus deltoides and P. trichocarpa) that were colonized by either an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AmF), Rhizophagus irregularis or an ectomycorrhizal fungus (EmF), Laccaria bicolor, to describe the small RNA (sRNA) landscape including small open reading frames (sORFs) and micro RNAs (miRNAs) involved in these mutualistic interactions. We identified differential expression of sRNAs that were, to a large extent, (1) within the genomic regions lacking annotated genes in the Populus genome and (2) distinct for each fungal interaction. These sRNAs may be a source of novel sORFs within a genome, and in this regard, we identified potential sORFs encoded by the sRNAs. We predicted a higher number of differentially-expressed miRNAs in P. trichocarpa (4 times more) than in P. deltoides (conserved and novel). In addition, 44 miRNAs were common in P. trichocarpa between the EmF and AmF treatments, and only 4 miRNAs were common in P. deltoides between the treatments. Root colonization by either fungus was more effective in P. trichocarpa than in P. deltoides, thus the relatively few differentially-expressed miRNAs predicted in P. deltoides might reflect the extent of the symbiosis. Finally, we predicted several genes targets for the plant miRNAs identified here, including potential fungal gene targets. Our findings shed light on additional molecular tiers with a role in Populus-fungal mutualistic associations and provides a set of potential molecular targets for future enhancement.

Review: Arbuscular mycorrhizas as key players in sustainable plant phosphorus acquisition: An overview on the mechanisms involved

Phosphorus (P) is a poorly available macronutrient essential for plant growth and development and consequently for successful crop yield and ecosystem productivity. To cope with P limitations plants have evolved strategies for enhancing P uptake and/or improving P efficiency use. The universal 450-million-yr-old arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) (fungus-root) symbioses are one of the most successful and widespread strategies to maximize access of plants to available P. AM fungi biotrophically colonize the root cortex of most plant species and develop an extraradical mycelium which overgrows the nutrient depletion zone of the soil surrounding plant roots. This hyphal network is specialized in the acquisition of low mobility nutrients from soil, particularly P. During the last years, molecular biology techniques coupled to novel physiological approaches have provided fascinating contributions to our understanding of the mechanisms of symbiotic P transport. Mycorrhiza-specific plant phosphate transporters, which are required not only for symbiotic P transfer but also for maintenance of the symbiosis, have been identified. The present review provides an overview of the contribution of AM fungi to plant P acquisition and an update of recent findings on the physiological, molecular and regulatory mechanisms of P transport in the AM symbiosis.

Identification and characterisation of microRNAs and their target genes in phosphate-starved Nicotiana benthamiana by small RNA deep sequencing and 5'RACE analysis

BACKGROUND

Phosphorus is an important macronutrient that is severely lacking in soils. In plants, specific microRNAs (miRNAs) essential for nutrient management and the regulation of stress responses are responsible for the control of many phosphate starvation responses. Further understanding of conserved and species-specific microRNA species has potential implications for the development of crops tolerant to soils with low phosphate.

RESULTS

This study identified and characterised phosphate starvation-responsive miRNAs in the native Australian tobacco Nicotiana benthamiana. Small RNA libraries were constructed and sequenced from phosphate-starved plant leaves, stems and roots. Twenty-four conserved miRNA families and 36 species-specific miRNAs were identified. The majority of highly phosphate starvation-responsive miRNAs were highly conserved, comprising of members from the miR399, miR827, and miR2111 families. In addition, two miRNA-star species were identified to be phosphate starvation-responsive. A total of seven miRNA targets were confirmed using RLM-5'RACE to be cleaved by five miRNA families, including two confirmed cleavage targets for Nbe-miR399 species, one for Nbe-miR2111, and two for Nbe-miR398. A number of N. benthamiana-specific features for conserved miRNAs were identified, including species-specific miRNA targets predicted or confirmed for miR399, miR827, and miR398.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results give an insight into the phosphate starvation-responsive miRNAs of Nicotiana benthamiana, and indicate that the phosphate starvation response pathways in N. benthamiana contain both highly conserved and species-specific components.

Complex regulation of microRNAs in roots of competitively-grown isogenic Nicotiana attenuata plants with different capacities to interact with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi

BACKGROUND

Nicotiana attenuata is an ecological model plant whose 2.57 Gb genome has recently been sequenced and assembled and for which miRNAs and their genomic locations have been identified. To understand how this plant's miRNAs are reconfigured during plant-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) interactions and whether hostplant calcium- and calmodulin dependent protein kinase (CCaMK) expression which regulates the AMF interaction also modulates miRNAs levels and regulation, we performed a large-scale miRNA analysis of this plant-AMF interaction.

RESULTS

Next generation sequencing of miRNAs in roots of empty vector (EV) N. attenuata plants and an isogenic line silenced in CCaMK expression (irCCaMK) impaired in AMF-interactions grown under competitive conditions with and without AMF inoculum revealed a total of 149 unique miRNAs: 67 conserved and 82 novel ones. The majority of the miRNAs had a length of 21 nucleotides. MiRNA abundances were highly variable ranging from 400 to more than 25,000 reads per million. The miRNA profile of irCCaMK plants impaired in AMF colonization was distinct from fully AMF-functional EV plants grown in the same pot. Six conserved miRNAs were present in all conditions and accumulated differentially depending on treatment and genotype; five (miR6153, miR403a-3p, miR7122a, miR167-5p and miR482d, but not miR399a-3p) showed the highest accumulation in AMF inoculated EV plants compared to inoculated irCCaMK plants. Furthermore, the accumulation patterns of sequence variants of selected conserved miRNAs showed a very distinct pattern related to AMF colonization - one variant of miR473-5p specifically accumulated in AMF-inoculated plants. Also abundances of miR403a-3p, miR171a-3p and one of the sequence variants of miR172a-3p increased in AMF-inoculated EV compared to inoculated irCCaMK plants and to non-inoculated EV plants, while miR399a-3p was most strongly enriched in AMF inoculated irCCaMK plants grown in competition with EV. The analysis of putative targets of selected miRNAs revealed an involvement in P starvation (miR399), phytohormone signaling (Nat-R-PN59, miR172, miR393) and defense (e.g. miR482, miR8667, Nat-R-PN-47).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates (1) a large-scale reprograming of miRNAs induced by AMF colonization and (2) that the impaired AMF signaling due to CCaMK silencing and the resulting reduced competitive ability of irCCaMK plants play a role in modulating signal-dependent miRNA accumulation.

Partner communication and role of nutrients in the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis

Contents Summary 1031 I. Introduction 1031 II. Interkingdom communication enabling symbiosis 1032 III. Nutritional and regulatory roles for key metabolites in the AM symbiosis 1035 IV. The plant-fungus genotype combination determines the outcome of the symbiosis 1039 V. Perspectives 1039 Acknowledgements 1041 References 1041 SUMMARY: The evolutionary and ecological success of the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis relies on an efficient and multifactorial communication system for partner recognition, and on a fine-tuned and reciprocal metabolic regulation of each symbiont to reach an optimal functional integration. Besides strigolactones, N-acetylglucosamine-derivatives released by the plant were recently suggested to trigger fungal reprogramming at the pre-contact stage. Remarkably, N-acetylglucosamine-based diffusible molecules also are symbiotic signals produced by AM fungi (AMF) and clues on the mechanisms of their perception by the plant are emerging. AMF genomes and transcriptomes contain a battery of putative effector genes that may have conserved and AMF- or host plant-specific functions. Nutrient exchange is the key feature of AM symbiosis. A mechanism of phosphate transport inside fungal hyphae has been suggested, and first insights into the regulatory mechanisms of root colonization in accordance with nutrient transfer and status were obtained. The recent discovery of the dependency of AMF on fatty acid transfer from the host has offered a convincing explanation for their obligate biotrophism. Novel studies highlighted the importance of plant and fungal genotypes for the outcome of the symbiosis. These findings open new perspectives for fundamental research and application of AMF in agriculture.

Identification of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Fungi Responsive microRNAs and Their Regulatory Network in Maize

Maize can form symbiotic relationships with arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) fungus to increase productivity and resistance, but the miRNAs in maize responsible for this process have not been discovered. In this study, 155 known and 28 novel miRNAs were identified by performing high-throughput sequencing of sRNA in maize roots colonized by AM fungi. Similar to the profiles in other AM-capable plants, a large proportion of identified maize miRNAs were 24 nt in length. Fourteen and two miRNAs were significantly down- and up-regulated in response to AM fungus Glomus intraradices inoculation, respectively, suggesting potential roles of these miRNAs in AM symbiosis. Interestingly, 12 of 14 significantly down-regulated known maize miRNAs belong to the miR399 family, which was previously reported to be involved in the interaction between Medicago truncatula and AM fungi. This result indicated that the miR399 family should regulate AM symbiosis conservatively across different plant lineages. Pathway and network analyses showed that the differentially expressed miRNAs might regulate lipid metabolism and phosphate starvation response in maize during the symbiosis process via their target genes. Several members of the miR399 family and the miR397 family should be involved in controlling the fatty acid metabolism and promoting lipid delivering from plants to AM fungi. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on miRNAs mediating fatty acids from plant to AM fungi. This study provides insight into the regulatory roles of miRNAs in the symbiosis between plants and AM fungi.

The Art of Self-Control - Autoregulation of Plant-Microbe Symbioses

Plants interact with diverse microbes including those that result in nutrient-acquiring symbioses. In order to balance the energy cost with the benefit gained, plants employ a systemic negative feedback loop to control the formation of these symbioses. This is particularly well-understood in nodulation, the symbiosis between legumes and nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, and is known as autoregulation of nodulation (AON). However, much less is understood about the autoregulation of the ancient arbuscular mycorrhizal symbioses that form between Glomeromycota fungi and the majority of land plants. Elegant physiological studies in legumes have indicated there is at least some overlap in the genes and signals that regulate these two symbioses but there are major gaps in our understanding. In this paper we examine the hypothesis that the autoregulation of mycorrhizae (AOM) pathway shares some elements with AON but that there are also some important differences. By reviewing the current knowledge of the AON pathway, we have identified important directions for future AOM studies. We also provide the first genetic evidence that CLV2 (an important element of the AON pathway) influences mycorrhizal development in a non-legume, tomato and review the interaction of the autoregulation pathway with plant hormones and nutrient status. Finally, we discuss whether autoregulation may play a role in the relationships plants form with other microbes.

Reducing Water Availability Impacts the Development of the Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungus Rhizophagus irregularis MUCL 41833 and Its Ability to Take Up and Transport Phosphorus Under in Vitro Conditions

Climate change scenarios predict a higher variability in rainfall and an increased risk of water deficits during summers for the coming decades. For this reason, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and their mitigating effects on drought stress in plants are increasingly considered in crop management. However, the impact of a decrease in water availability on the development of AMF and their ability to take up and transport inorganic phosphorus (Pi) to their hosts remain poorly explored. Here, Medicago truncatula plantlets were grown in association with Rhizophagus irregularis MUCL 41833 in bi-compartmented Petri plates. The system consisted in associating the plant and AMF in a root compartment (RC), allowing only the hyphae to extend in a root-free hyphal compartment (HC). Water availability in the HC was then lowered by increasing the concentration of polyethylene glycol-8000 (PEG-8000) from 0 to 10, 25, and 50 g L-1 (corresponding to a slight decrease in water potential of -0.024, -0.025, -0.030, and -0.056 Mpa, respectively). Hyphal growth, spore production and germination were severely impaired at the lowest water availability. The dynamics of Pi uptake by the AMF was also impacted, although total Pi uptake evaluated after 24 h stayed unchanged. The percentage of metabolically active extraradical hyphae remained above 70%. Finally, at the lowest water availability, a higher P concentration was observed in the shoots of M. truncatula. At reduced water availability, the extraradical mycelium (ERM) development was impacted, potentially limiting its capacity to explore a higher volume of soil. Pi uptake was slowed down but not prevented. The sensitivity of R. irregularis MUCL 41833 to a, even small, decrease in water availability contrasted with several studies reporting tolerance of AMF to drought. This suggests a species or strain-dependent effect and support the necessity to compare the impact of water availability on morpho-anatomy, nutrient uptake and transport capacities of other, potentially more drought-tolerant (e.g., isolated from dry environments) AMF.

Analysis of physiological and miRNA responses to Pi deficiency in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)

The induction of miR399 and miR398 and the inhibition of miR156, miR159, miR160, miR171, miR2111, and miR2643 were observed under Pi deficiency in alfalfa. The miRNA-mediated genes involved in basic metabolic process, root and shoot development, stress response and Pi uptake. Inorganic phosphate (Pi) deficiency is known to be a limiting factor in plant development and growth. However, the underlying miRNAs associated with the Pi deficiency-responsive mechanism in alfalfa are unclear. To elucidate the molecular mechanism at the miRNA level, we constructed four small RNA (sRNA) libraries from the roots and shoots of alfalfa grown under normal or Pi-deficient conditions. In the present study, alfalfa plants showed reductions in biomass, photosynthesis, and Pi content and increases in their root-to-shoot ratio and citric, malic, and succinic acid contents under Pi limitation. Sequencing results identified 47 and 44 differentially expressed miRNAs in the roots and shoots, respectively. Furthermore, 909 potential target genes were predicted, and some targets were validated by RLM-RACE assays. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses showed prominent enrichment in signal transducer activity, binding and basic metabolic pathways for carbohydrates, fatty acids and amino acids; cellular response to hormone stimulus and response to auxin pathways were also enriched. qPCR results verified that the differentially expressed miRNA profile was consistent with sequencing results, and putative target genes exhibited opposite expression patterns. In this study, the miRNAs associated with the response to Pi limitation in alfalfa were identified. In addition, there was an enrichment of miRNA-targeted genes involved in biological regulatory processes such as basic metabolic pathways, root and shoot development, stress response, Pi transportation and citric acid secretion.

Roles of Non-Coding RNA in Sugarcane-Microbe Interaction

Studies have highlighted the importance of non-coding RNA regulation in plant-microbe interaction. However, the roles of sugarcane microRNAs (miRNAs) in the regulation of disease responses have not been investigated. Firstly, we screened the sRNA transcriptome of sugarcane infected with Acidovorax avenae. Conserved and novel miRNAs were identified. Additionally, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were aligned to differentially expressed sequences from the sugarcane transcriptome. Interestingly, many siRNAs aligned to a transcript encoding a copper-transporter gene whose expression was induced in the presence of A. avenae, while the siRNAs were repressed in the presence of A. avenae. Moreover, a long intergenic non-coding RNA was identified as a potential target or decoy of miR408. To extend the bioinformatics analysis, we carried out independent inoculations and the expression patterns of six miRNAs were validated by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR). Among these miRNAs, miR408-a copper-microRNA-was downregulated. The cleavage of a putative miR408 target, a laccase, was confirmed by a modified 5'RACE (rapid amplification of cDNA ends) assay. MiR408 was also downregulated in samples infected with other pathogens, but it was upregulated in the presence of a beneficial diazotrophic bacteria. Our results suggest that regulation by miR408 is important in sugarcane sensing whether microorganisms are either pathogenic or beneficial, triggering specific miRNA-mediated regulatory mechanisms accordingly.

Identification of tomato miRNAs responsive to root colonization by endophytic Pochonia chlamydosporia

The molecular mechanisms active during the endophytic phase of the fungus Pochonia chlamydosporia are still poorly understood. In particular, few data are available on the links between the endophyte and the root response, as modulated by noncoding small RNAs. In this study, we describe the microRNAs (miRNAs) that are differentially expressed (DE) in the roots of tomato, colonized by P. chlamydosporia. A genome-wide NGS expression profiling of small RNAs in roots, either colonized or not by the fungus, showed 26 miRNAs upregulated in inoculated roots. Their predicted target genes are involved in the plant information processing system, which recognizes, percepts, and transmits signals, with higher representations in processes such as apoptosis and plant defense regulation. RNAseq data showed that predicted miRNA target genes were downregulated in tomato roots after 4, 7, 10, and 21 days post P. chlamydosporia inoculation. The differential expression of four miRNAs was further validated using qPCR analysis. The P. chlamydosporia endophytic lifestyle in tomato roots included an intricate network of miRNAs and targets. Data provide a first platform of DE tomato miRNAs after P. chlamydosporia colonization. They indicated that several miRNAs are involved in the host response to the fungus, playing important roles for its recognition as a symbiotic microorganism, allowing endophytism by modulating the host defense reaction. Data also indicated that endophytism affects tRNA fragmentation. This is the first study on miRNAs induced by P. chlamydosporia endophytism and related development regulation effects in Solanum lycopersicum.

MicroRNA-mediated responses to long-term magnesium-deficiency in Citrus sinensis roots revealed by Illumina sequencing

Background

Magnesium (Mg)-deficiency occurs most frequently in strongly acidic, sandy soils. Citrus are grown mainly on acidic and strong acidic soils. Mg-deficiency causes poor fruit quality and low fruit yield in some Citrus orchards. For the first time, we investigated Mg-deficiency-responsive miRNAs in ‘Xuegan’ (Citrus sinensis) roots using Illumina sequencing in order to obtain some miRNAs presumably responsible for Citrus Mg-deficiency tolerance.

Results

We obtained 101 (69) miRNAs with increased (decreased) expression from Mg-starved roots. Our results suggested that the adaptation of Citrus roots to Mg-deficiency was related to the several aspects: (a) inhibiting root respiration and related gene expression via inducing miR158 and miR2919; (b) enhancing antioxidant system by down-regulating related miRNAs (miR780, miR6190, miR1044, miR5261 and miR1151) and the adaptation to low-phosphorus (miR6190); (c) activating transport-related genes by altering the expression of miR6190, miR6485, miR1044, miR5029 and miR3437; (d) elevating protein ubiquitination due to decreased expression levels of miR1044, miR5261, miR1151 and miR5029; (e) maintaining root growth by regulating miR5261, miR6485 and miR158 expression; and (f) triggering DNA repair (transcription regulation) by regulating miR5176 and miR6485 (miR6028, miR6190, miR6485, miR5621, miR160 and miR7708) expression. Mg-deficiency-responsive miRNAs involved in root signal transduction also had functions in Citrus Mg-deficiency tolerance.

Conclusions

We obtained several novel Mg-deficiency-responsive miRNAs (i.e., miR5261, miR158, miR6190, miR6485, miR1151 and miR1044) possibly contributing to Mg-deficiency tolerance. These results revealed some novel clues on the miRNA-mediated adaptation to nutrient deficiencies in higher plants.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-017-3999-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Use of Grafting to Study Systemic Signaling in Plants

Grafting has long been an important technique in agriculture. Nowadays, grafting is a widely used technique also to study systemic long-distance signaling in plants. Plants respond to their surrounding environment, and at that time many aspects of their physiology are regulated systemically; these start from local input signals and are followed by the transmission of information to the rest of the plant. For example, soil nutrient conditions, light/photoperiod, and biotic and abiotic stresses affect plants heterogeneously, and plants perceive such information in specific plant tissues or organs. Such environmental cues are crucial determinants of plant growth and development, and plants drastically change their morphology and physiology to adapt to various events in their life. Hitherto, intensive studies have been conducted to understand systemic signaling in plants, and grafting techniques have permitted advances in this field. The breakthrough technique of micrografting in Arabidopsis thaliana was established in 2002 and led to the development of molecular genetic tools in this field. Thereafter, various phenomena of systemic signaling have been identified at the molecular level, including nutrient fixation, flowering, circadian clock and defense against pathogens. The significance of grafting is that it can clarify the transmission of the stimulus and molecules. At present, many micro- and macromolecules have been identified as mobile signals, which are transported through plant vascular tissues to co-ordinate their physiology and development. In this review, we introduce the various grafting techniques that have been developed, we report on the recent advances in the field of plant systemic signaling where grafting techniques have been applied and provide insights for the future.

Transcriptional profiling of arbuscular mycorrhizal roots exposed to high levels of phosphate reveals the repression of cell cycle-related genes and secreted protein genes in Rhizophagus irregularis

The development of arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) is strongly suppressed under high-phosphate (Pi) conditions. To investigate AM fungal responses during the suppression of AM by high Pi, we performed an RNA-seq analysis of Rhizophagus irregularis colonizing Lotus japonicus roots at different levels of Pi (20, 100, 300, and 500 μM). AM fungal colonization decreased markedly under high-Pi conditions. In total, 163 fungal genes were differentially expressed among the four Pi treatments. Among these genes, a cell cycle-regulatory gene, cyclin-dependent kinase CDK1, and several DNA replication- and mitosis-related genes were repressed under high-Pi conditions. More than 20 genes encoding secreted proteins were also downregulated by high-Pi conditions, including the strigolactone-induced putative secreted protein 1 gene that enhances AM fungal colonization. In contrast, the expression of genes related to aerobic respiration and transport in R. irregularis were largely unaffected. Our data suggest that high Pi suppresses the expression of genes associated with fungal cell cycle progression or that encode secreted proteins that may be required for intercellular hyphal growth and arbuscule formation. However, high Pi has little effect on the transcriptional regulation of the primary metabolism or transport in preformed fungal structures.

Time-Course Small RNA Profiling Reveals Rice miRNAs and Their Target Genes in Response to Rice Stripe Virus Infection

It has been known that many microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the regulation for the plant development and defense mechanism by regulating the expression of the target gene. Several previous studies has demonstrated functional roles of miRNAs in antiviral defense mechanisms. In this study, we employed high-throughput sequencing technology to identify rice miRNAs upon rice stripe virus (RSV) infection at three different time points. Six libraries from mock and RSV-infected samples were subjected for small RNA sequencing. Bioinformatic analyses revealed 374 known miRNAs and 19 novel miRNAs. Expression of most identified miRNAs was not dramatically changed at 3 days post infection (dpi) and 7 dpi by RSV infection. However, many numbers of miRNAs were up-regulated in mock and RSV-infected samples at 15 dpi by RSV infection. Moreover, expression profiles of identified miRNAs revealed that only few numbers of miRNAs were strongly regulated by RSV infection. In addition, 15 resistance genes were targets of six miRNAs suggesting that those identified miRNAs and 15 NBS-LRR resistance genes might be involved in RSV infection. Taken together, our results provide novel insight into the dynamic expression profiles of rice miRNAs upon RSV infection and clues for the understanding of the regulatory roles of miRNAs via time-course.

Identification of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM)-Responsive microRNAs in Tomato

A majority of land plants can form symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated to regulate this process in legumes, but their involvement in non-legume species is largely unknown. In this study, by performing deep sequencing of sRNA libraries in tomato roots and comparing with tomato genome, a total of 700 potential miRNAs were predicted, among them, 187 are known plant miRNAs that have been previously deposited in miRBase. Unlike the profiles in other plants such as rice and Arabidopsis, a large proportion of predicted tomato miRNAs was 24 nt in length. A similar pattern was observed in the potato genome but not in tobacco, indicating a Solanum genus-specific expansion of 24-nt miRNAs. About 40% identified tomato miRNAs showed significantly altered expressions upon Rhizophagus irregularis inoculation, suggesting the potential roles of these novel miRNAs in AM symbiosis. The differential expression of five known and six novel miRNAs were further validated using qPCR analysis. Interestingly, three up-regulated known tomato miRNAs belong to a known miR171 family, a member of which has been reported in Medicago truncatula to regulate AM symbiosis. Thus, the miR171 family likely regulates AM symbiosis conservatively across different plant lineages. More than 1000 genes targeted by potential AM-responsive miRNAs were provided and their roles in AM symbiosis are worth further exploring.