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A symbiotic MLO gene regulates root development via RALF34-triggered Ca2+ signaling in Lotus japonicus

Filippo Binci1, Giacomo Guarneri1, Sofía Cristina Somoza1

  • 1Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, Padova 35131, Italy.

Plant Physiology
|July 9, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Mildew Locus O (MLO) genes, like LjMLO4 in Lotus japonicus, regulate root growth and calcium signaling. This study reveals their role in root development independent of beneficial microbes.

Area of Science:

  • Plant Biology
  • Molecular Plant Science
  • Root Development

Background:

  • Mildew Locus O (MLO) genes are known regulators in plant processes.
  • MLO proteins function as calcium channels responding to peptides.
  • Their role in root development and symbiosis requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate the function of LjMLO4 in Lotus japonicus.
  • Determine its role in root development and response to LjRALF34 peptides.
  • Elucidate its involvement in arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis.

Main Methods:

  • Gene expression analysis in Lotus japonicus.
  • Creation and analysis of LjMLO4 loss-of-function mutants.
  • Heterologous expression in E. coli for functional validation.
  • Calcium imaging and physiological assays.

Main Results:

  • LjMLO4 expression is induced by AM fungal colonization but loss-of-function shows subtle AM phenotypes.
  • LjMLO4 regulates primary and lateral root growth independently of AM colonization.
  • LjMLO4 facilitates calcium transport and mediates LjRALF34-induced root responses.
  • LjMLO4 acts in a calcium-dependent manner.

Conclusions:

  • LjMLO4 is a key regulator of root system architecture.
  • It integrates peptide signaling, calcium transport, and root development.
  • MLO proteins play diverse roles beyond disease resistance, including symbiosis and development.

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