Transcriptome plasticity underlying plant root colonization and insect invasion by Pseudomonas protegens

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Ecology

Background:

• Pseudomonas protegens displays remarkable lifestyle plasticity, capable of beneficial plant interactions and insecticidal activity.
• Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind P. protegens' dual lifestyle and host colonization is crucial but poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the transcriptomic plasticity of P. protegens across different environments (wheat roots, insect gut, insect hemolymph).
• To identify specific genes and factors involved in plant-beneficial versus insecticidal interactions.
• To explore the evolutionary origins of P. protegens' cross-kingdom colonization capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Large-scale transcriptomics analysis of P. protegens strain CHA0.
• Comparative analysis of gene expression in wheat roots, Plutella xylostella gut, and Galleria mellonella hemolymph.
• Genus-wide comparative genomics.

Main Results:

• Significant transcriptomic profile variations were observed based on the environment and host.
• Genes related to motility and Reb toxins were upregulated in planta, while antimicrobial compounds and a transposase were insect-specific.
• Two-partner secretion systems were identified as novel factors in insect invasion.

Conclusions:

• P. protegens dynamically adjusts gene expression to adapt to diverse ecological niches.
• Specific genetic factors mediate distinct plant-beneficial and insecticidal functions.
• Comparative genomics provides insights into the evolution of P. protegens' versatile lifestyle.