Endophytic microorganisms and the host plant: genes and metabolites involved in the interaction

Abstract

Endophytic microorganisms are fungi or bacteria that inhabit the interior of the plant without causing damage to the host. These micro-organisms have potential as agents of biological control and source of new molecules of biotechnological interest. In this context, knowledge of the genetic/molecular mechanisms involved in the endophyte-plant interaction and in the synthesis pathways of molecules with antimicrobial activity may allow the development of a process for agricultural improvement and biomolecule production. In previous projects, Epicolactone, a new natural product, has been described, genes involved in its synthesis and in microbial interactions were identified in the fungus Epicoccum nigrum P16 and in the bacteria Burkholderia seminalis TC3.4.2R3, Methylobacterium mesophilicum SR1.6 / 6 and Curtobacterium sp. In addition, the genomes of these endophytes were sequenced, and the genomes of these endophytes were sequenced, Allowing a first description of the pathways involved in the biosynthesis of molecules of biotechnological interest, endophyte-host interaction mechanisms and associated microorganisms. Thus, the objective of the present project will be to identify i) the function of genes previously identified; Ii) genes involved in phytopathogen control; Iii) mechanisms involved in regulating the interaction of endophytic microorganisms in the environment; Iv) through comparative genomic analysis, genes that confer specificity to the interaction with the host plant; V) characterize the biosynthesis pathway of Epicolactone produced by E. nigrum. Thus, this project will aim to contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in microbial interactions between endophytes and associated organisms. (AU)