Seminars

Plant-associated bacteria are crucial in host adaptation to diverse environmental stresses. Beneficial microbes increase nutrient uptake and accumulation in the host, improving plant growth and health. It is unknown how the plant microbiota and the ions diffusion barrier at the root endodermis coordinate to control the flow of nutrients between the soil and xylem. Here we found that the genes regulating the root diffusion barriers alter the composition of the plant microbiota. We characterise bacterial effect on the root barriers deposition and how it changes the ion homeostasis of the plant. We also found that the plant microbiota stabilises the permeability of the root in response to nutritional stress conditions. Our work will provide a better understanding of the role of bacteria in root function, and will provide vital information for the development of effective field bio-inocula to promote useful agronomic gains.