Summary
This study elucidates the molecular physiology of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) phosphate uptake in tomato by examining how plant phosphorus status regulates both the mycorrhizal Pi uptake pathway and the expression of mycorrhiza-inducible phosphate transporter genes. The findings indicate that the plant host exerts control over this symbiotic nutrient acquisition pathway, at least partially through transcriptional regulation of transporter genes in response to available phosphorus, with high plant P status suppressing the mycorrhizal uptake route.
Regional applicability
This mechanistic work on phosphate uptake regulation in tomato (a globally grown horticultural crop) has relevance to UK horticulture and plant nutrition science, particularly for optimising fertiliser management and understanding mycorrhizal benefits under varying soil phosphorus conditions. The findings may inform approaches to reducing phosphate inputs in UK intensive horticulture by enhancing natural mycorrhizal-mediated nutrient acquisition.
Key measures
Mycorrhizal phosphate uptake rates; expression of mycorrhiza-inducible Pi transporter genes (StPT3); activation of mycorrhiza-specific promoter fragments in response to phospholipid extracts and plant phosphorus status
Outcomes reported
The study demonstrated that mycorrhizal phosphate uptake in tomato is transcriptionally regulated by plant phosphorus status. At high plant P status, the mycorrhizal Pi uptake pathway and mycorrhiza-inducible Pi transporter genes were repressed, indicating host control of nutrient acquisition through fungal symbiosis.
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