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Transcription Factors Controlling the Rhizobium–Legume Symbiosis: Integrating Infection, Organogenesis and the Abiotic Environment

Journal Article · · Plant and Cell Physiology
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1093/pcp/pcac063· OSTI ID:1895497

Abstract

Legume roots engage in a symbiotic relationship with rhizobia, leading to the development of nitrogen-fixing nodules. Nodule development is a sophisticated process and is under the tight regulation of the plant. The symbiosis initiates with a signal exchange between the two partners, followed by the development of a new organ colonized by rhizobia. Over two decades of study have shed light on the transcriptional regulation of rhizobium–legume symbiosis. A large number of transcription factors (TFs) have been implicated in one or more stages of this symbiosis. Legumes must monitor nodule development amidst a dynamic physical environment. Some environmental factors are conducive to nodulation, whereas others are stressful. The modulation of rhizobium–legume symbiosis by the abiotic environment adds another layer of complexity and is also transcriptionally regulated. Several symbiotic TFs act as integrators between symbiosis and the response to the abiotic environment. In this review, we trace the role of various TFs involved in rhizobium–legume symbiosis along its developmental route and highlight the ones that also act as communicators between this symbiosis and the response to the abiotic environment. Finally, we discuss contemporary approaches to study TF-target interactions in plants and probe their potential utility in the field of rhizobium–legume symbiosis.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
Grant/Contract Number:
SC0018247
OSTI ID:
1895497
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 2422460
OSTI ID: 1867726
Journal Information:
Plant and Cell Physiology, Journal Name: Plant and Cell Physiology Journal Issue: 10 Vol. 63; ISSN 0032-0781
Publisher:
Oxford University PressCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
Japan
Language:
English

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  • Isidra‐Arellano, Mariel C.; Pozas‐Rodríguez, Eithan A.; Rocío Reyero‐Saavedra, María
  • The Plant Journal, Vol. 103, Issue 3 https://doi.org/10.1111/tpj.14789
journal May 2020
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