Microbiomes: A Major Role… for Plants Too!
Université Bourgogne Europe has announced the recent publication of a scientific article in the international journal New Phytologist, produced by researchers from the UMR Agroécologie. The study highlights the still underestimated role of the rhizosphere microbiome in plant breeding programs.
The improvement of cultivated plants has traditionally relied on two major factors: genotype, meaning plant genetics, and the environment, including soil, climate, and agricultural practices. Research conducted by the Agroécologie laboratory (UMR INRAE 1347 / Université Bourgogne Europe / Institut Agro Dijon) on the plant holobiont — the complex assembly formed by a host plant and all the microorganisms associated with it — emphasizes the role of a third key driver: the soil microbiome, made up of numerous microbial species (bacteria and fungi), some of which live in close contact with plant roots.
In this study, the researchers developed an original experimental approach combining several genotypes of Arabidopsis thaliana*, different soil types with contrasting properties, and microbiomes that were extracted and then reintroduced under controlled conditions. This methodology made it possible to clearly distinguish the respective effects of genotype, microbiome, and the physico-chemical characteristics of the soil, particularly on plant growth and health.
The results demonstrate that the microbiome contributes significantly to plant performance, with effects varying depending on the traits studied. Regarding growth, a direct effect was observed, leading to major variations in biomass. However, for disease resistance, the influence of the microbiome depends heavily on interactions with both plant genotype and environment, making the effects more context-dependent.Université Bourgogne Europe has announced the recent publication of a scientific article in the international journal New Phytologist, produced by researchers from the UMR Agroécologie. The study highlights the still underestimated role of the rhizosphere microbiome in plant breeding programs.
The improvement of cultivated plants has traditionally relied on two major factors: genotype, meaning plant genetics, and the environment, including soil, climate, and agricultural practices. Research conducted by the Agroécologie laboratory (UMR INRAE 1347 / Université Bourgogne Europe / Institut Agro Dijon) on the plant holobiont — the complex assembly formed by a host plant and all the microorganisms associated with it — emphasizes the role of a third key driver: the soil microbiome, made up of numerous microbial species (bacteria and fungi), some of which live in close contact with plant roots.
In this study, the researchers developed an original experimental approach combining several genotypes of Arabidopsis thaliana*, different soil types with contrasting properties, and microbiomes that were extracted and then reintroduced under controlled conditions. This methodology made it possible to clearly distinguish the respective effects of genotype, microbiome, and the physico-chemical characteristics of the soil, particularly on plant growth and health.
The results demonstrate that the microbiome contributes significantly to plant performance, with effects varying depending on the traits studied. Regarding growth, a direct effect was observed, leading to major variations in biomass. However, for disease resistance, the influence of the microbiome depends heavily on interactions with both plant genotype and environment, making the effects more context-dependent.
These findings highlight the importance of integrating the microbiome into plant breeding strategies. They also show that approaches must be tailored according to the targeted traits: when the microbiome’s effect is independent of genotype and environment, breeding programs can remain relatively straightforward. Conversely, when complex interactions are involved, experimental designs become more demanding.
A better understanding of interactions between plants and microorganisms opens up promising and practical perspectives for the development of more sustainable, resilient, and productive agricultural systems, particularly in the current context of climate change and the uncertainties weighing on farmers regarding energy and fertilizer supplies.
*Scientific name for thale cress.