Deciphering the role of myo-inositol in legume nodulation and microbiome recruitment under drought stress
Duration: Master’s thesis
BACKGROUND
The beneficial interaction of legumes with soil microbiota is one of the best studied. Most of these interactions take place in specialized structures called nodules, where both Rhizobia and other species are housed. These interactions improve the availability of nutrients and even improve the response to pathogens. However, many legumes reduce or even avoid forming these structures in the face of prolonged periods of high temperatures or drought. Unfortunately, these events are becoming more frequent, especially in climates similar to those of the Mediterranean basin, conditioning the production of these species. It has been observed that myo-inositol is a compound involved in nodulation through its catabolism, however, its role in the process is not clear. This compound is a regular part of root exudates and has been described as attracting beneficial microbiota, but its production and exudate can be conditioned by environmental stresses. The study of the effects of an exogenous treatment could facilitate future improvements in stress management, guaranteeing the production of legumes in periods of severe stress.
OBJECTIVES
– Investigate myo-Inositol’s Role in Nodule Formation: Determine the significance of myo-inositol in the process of legume nodulation, particularly focusing on its influence on nodule formation and development.
– Study myo-Inositol’s Impact under Drought Conditions: Explore how drought stress affects the production and availability of myo-inositol in the rhizosphere, and its subsequent implications on legume nodulation events.
– Characterize Rhizosphere Microbiota Dynamics: Analyze the composition and diversity of rhizosphere microbiota in response to varying myo-inositol levels and drought stress conditions, aiming to understand the interplay between root exudates and microbial communities.
– Evaluate Nodulation Efficiency: Assess the efficiency of nodulation in Medicago sp. plants under different myo-inositol concentrations and drought stress levels, quantifying nodule formation parameters such as number, size, and distribution.
– Advance Knowledge in Plant-Microbiota Interactions: Contribute to advancing knowledge in the field of plant biology and agroecosystems by generating new insights into the role of myo-inositol and rhizosphere microbiota in legume nodulation processes, with implications for sustainable crop production and global food security.