RNA-seq reveals differentially expressed genes in rice (Oryza sativa) roots during interactions with plant-growth promoting bacteria, Azospirillum brasilense

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217309
• Publication Date: 2019-05-23T18:44:44Z
• Authors: Jacklyn Thomas; Ha Ram Kim; Yasir Rahmatallah; Grant Wiggins; Qinqing Yang; Raj Singh; Galina Glazko; Arijit Mukherjee
• Keywords: Azospirillum brasilense

Major non-legume crops can form beneficial associations with nitrogen-fixing bacteria like Azospirillum brasilense. Our current understanding of the molecular aspects and signaling that occur between important rice these is limited. In this study, we used an experimental system where could colonize plant roots promote growth in wild type symbiotic mutants (dmi3 pollux) rice. data suggest promotion root penetration not dependent on genes. We then colonization model to identify regulation gene expression at two different time points during interaction: 1day post inoculation (dpi), identified 1622 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) roots, 14dpi, 1995 DEGs. performed a comprehensive mining classify DEGs into categories transcription factors (TFs), protein kinases (PKs), transporters (TRs). Several encode proteins are involved flavonoid biosynthetic pathway, defense, hormone pathways. nitrate sugar transport also implicated play role other plant-microbe interactions. Overall, findings from study will serve as excellent resource characterize host genetic pathway controlling interactions non-legumes which have long-term implications towards sustainably improving agriculture.