In the heart of sustainable agriculture, a tiny, often overlooked player is stepping into the spotlight: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). These fungi, which form symbiotic relationships with most terrestrial plants, are proving to be a natural and cost-effective tool for enhancing plant resilience against abiotic stresses like drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures. This groundbreaking research, led by Ishita Samanta from the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Deemed to be University, was recently published in the journal ‘Plant Signaling & Behavior’ (which translates to ‘Plant Signaling & Behavior’ in English).
Samanta and her team have been unraveling the intricate mechanisms behind plant-AMF symbiosis, focusing on the genes involved, novel biomolecules, and growth regulators that lead to probable signal transduction pathways. “We’ve found that lipids and strigolactones play a crucial role in establishing this symbiosis,” Samanta explains. “Understanding these mechanisms can help us harness the power of AMF to improve plant health and resilience.”
The implications for the agricultural sector are substantial. Conventional methods of combating abiotic stresses often rely on genetic modifications or chemical treatments, which can be expensive and environmentally detrimental. AMF, on the other hand, offer a natural and sustainable alternative. By enhancing plant resistance to stress, these fungi can contribute to agricultural sustainability and ecosystem functioning, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of zero hunger.
The research also sheds light on the potential for AMF to mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture. As water scarcity and extreme temperatures become more prevalent, the need for stress-resistant crops will only grow. AMF could provide a vital tool in the fight against these challenges.
Moreover, the energy sector could also benefit from this research. As the demand for bioenergy crops increases, ensuring their resilience against abiotic stresses becomes paramount. AMF could play a significant role in enhancing the productivity and sustainability of these crops.
Samanta’s work is not just about understanding the past and present but also about shaping the future. “Our research is just the beginning,” she says. “There’s so much more to explore and understand about these fascinating fungi and their potential applications.”
As we grapple with the challenges of climate change and food security, the humble AMF could emerge as an unlikely hero. By providing a natural, cost-effective, and sustainable solution to abiotic stress in plants, these fungi could help us build a more resilient and secure agricultural future. The journey has just begun, and the potential is immense.