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The genetic architecture of host response reveals the importance of arbuscular mycorrhizae to maize cultivation.

Published version
Peer-reviewed

Type

Article

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Authors

Ramírez-Flores, M Rosario  ORCID logo  https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2561-0086
Perez-Limon, Sergio  ORCID logo  https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1893-4325
Barrales-Gamez, Benjamín  ORCID logo  https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5264-7637
Albinsky, Doris 

Abstract

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are ubiquitous in cultivated soils, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of major crop species. Studies in controlled conditions have demonstrated the potential of AMF to enhance the growth of host plants. However, it is difficult to estimate the actual benefit in the field, not least because of the lack of suitable AMF-free controls. Here we implement a novel strategy using the selective incorporation of AMF-resistance into a genetic mapping population to evaluate maize response to AMF. We found AMF to account for about one-third of the grain production in a medium input field, as well as to affect the relative performance of different plant genotypes. Characterization of the genetic architecture of the host response indicated a trade-off between mycorrhizal dependence and benefit. We identified several QTL linked to host benefit, supporting the feasibility of breeding crops to maximize profit from symbiosis with AMF.

Description

Keywords

Rhizophagus irregularis, arbuscular mycorrhiza, benefit, dependence, maize, plant biology, trade-off, Gene Expression Regulation, Plant, Mycorrhizae, Plant Proteins, Plant Roots, Soil, Symbiosis, Zea mays

Journal Title

Elife

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

2050-084X
2050-084X

Volume Title

9

Publisher

eLife Sciences Publications, Ltd