Plants Quest for Quality Microbial Partners
Information
Plant-associated microbes hold significant promise in tackling global food security and environmental issues. However, it is only recently that we have begun to unravel how hosts detect and respond to their microbiomes, forming stable mutualistic relationships. How plants simultaneously restrict pathogenic organisms while engaging in sophisticated intracellular symbiosis remains a key question in molecular plant-microbe interactions that is beginning to be addressed. Similarly, much is being uncovered about the plant selection mechanisms used to prioritize symbiosis with the most beneficial of compatible symbionts across pre-infection, infection, and post-infection stages of the mutualism.
The session aims to present ongoing research and breakthroughs on different aspects of host-imposed control of symbiosis, covering but not limited to: ecological influences, biochemical responses (such as plant peptides in symbiosis), engineering microbes for improved symbiotic relationships, multi-omics approaches, and plant receptors in immunity and symbiosis. These discussions have the potential to drive transformative changes in agriculture, fostering collaboration among plant scientists across disciplines. While the focus is on plant-microbe interactions, the sessions are designed to remain plant-centric, promoting a comprehensive approach to tackling contemporary agricultural challenges.
Equity and Inclusion: This plenary session proposal actively embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion by bringing together researchers from various relevant disciplines and racial backgrounds, featuring two female speakers, PIs mentoring high school, undergrad and graduate students and postdocs from multiple nationalities, and representing institutions ranging from research centers to universities. By fostering a wide range of perspectives on plant-microbe interactions, we ensure both established and emerging voices are highlighted, promoting a balanced and inclusive exchange of ideas. Given the indispensable role of plant-associated microbes in the broader field of plant science, this session will serve as a forward-thinking step toward an inclusive PlantBio25.
The session topics, which explore diverse aspects of microbial interactions with plants, are crafted to be accessible and relevant to researchers at all career stages. This fosters equal opportunities for participation and collaboration within the plant science community. Through this inclusive approach, the symposium aims to create a welcoming environment for all participants, while driving towards fair and equitable outcomes in the pursuit of scientific innovations that support sustainable global agriculture.
