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Establishing Fungal Entomopathogens as Endophytes: Towards Endophytic Biological Control
Published on: April 11, 2013
Root colonization by endophytic insect-pathogenic fungi
S Hu1, M J Bidochka1
1Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada.
Abstract:
Several ascomycetous insect-pathogenic fungi, including species in the genera Beauveria and Metarhizium, are plant root symbionts/endophytes and are termed as endophytic insect-pathogenic fungi (EIPF). The endophytic capability and insect pathogenicity of Metarhizium are coupled to provide an active method of insect-derived nitrogen transfer to plant hosts via fungal mycelia. In exchange for the insect-derived nitrogen, the plant provides photosynthate to the fungus. This symbiotic interaction offers other benefits to the plant-EIPF can improve plant growth, they are antagonistic to plant pathogens and herbivores and can enhance the plant tolerance to abiotic stresses. The mechanisms and underlying biochemical and genetic features of insect pathogenesis are generally well-established. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the underlying mechanisms in this plant-symbiotic association. Here we review five aspects of EIPF interactions with host plant roots: (i) rhizosphere colonization, (ii) signalling factors from the plant and EIPF, (iii) modulation of plant defence responses, (iv) nutrient exchange and (v) tripartite interactions with insects and other micro-organisms. The elucidation of these interactions is fundamental to understanding this symbiotic association for effective application of EIPF in an agricultural setting.
Insights
Endophytic insect-pathogenic fungi (EIPF) form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, transferring nitrogen from insects to plants. This review explores EIPF interactions, crucial for agricultural applications.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Mycology
- Plant Pathology
Background:
- Endophytic insect-pathogenic fungi (EIPF), including Beauveria and Metarhizium, associate with plant roots.
- These fungi exhibit both insect pathogenicity and plant symbiotic capabilities.
- The nitrogen transfer from insects to plants via EIPF is a key symbiotic function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms of endophytic insect-pathogenic fungi (EIPF) interactions with plant roots.
- To elucidate the five key aspects of EIPF-plant root symbiosis.
- To highlight the importance of understanding these interactions for agricultural applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of EIPF-plant root interactions.
- Analysis of five key interaction aspects: rhizosphere colonization, signaling, defense modulation, nutrient exchange, and tripartite interactions.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on EIPF symbiotic mechanisms.
Main Results:
- EIPF colonization of plant roots involves specific signaling and defense modulation.
- Nutrient exchange, particularly insect-derived nitrogen for plant photosynthates, is central to the symbiosis.
- EIPF offer benefits including improved plant growth, pathogen antagonism, and enhanced stress tolerance.
Conclusions:
- Understanding EIPF-plant root interactions is essential for harnessing their agricultural potential.
- Further research into the biochemical and genetic mechanisms is needed.
- EIPF represent a promising avenue for sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management.
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