Research

Life Sciences & Biotechnology

Title :

EXtraCELlular Vesicles as mediatoRs Of intercellUlar signaling in RooT fungal pathogenesis (EXCEL-ROUTE)

Area of research :

Life Sciences & Biotechnology

Focus area :

Root Microbiology

Principal Investigator :

Dr. Gouri Priya Ranjith, National Centre For Biological sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka

Timeline Start Year :

2024

Timeline End Year :

2026

Contact info :

Details

Executive Summary :

Fungal pathogens, particularly vascular-wilt pathogens like Fusarium oxysporum and Verticillium sp., significantly damage crop yields due to their interactions with plant hosts. These pathogens, which infect plant vasculature, cause wilting disease in various crops. Control methods often involve excessive chemical pesticides and unspecific fumigation. Recent evidence suggests that small membrane-bound Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in mediating intercellular signaling across trans-kingdoms. Trichoderma spp. (Td) is reported as a potent biocontrol agent against Fo in tomato, reducing disease severity. This project aims to molecularly dissect the crosstalk in tripartite root microbial interactions during confrontation and the biocontrol mechanisms exhibited by Td in modulating vascular-wilt disease by Fo. Understanding the intercellular signalling during tripartite root pathogenesis and sRNA communication between plant and fungal cells will enhance our understanding of plant disease mechanisms and contribute to effective disease control tools.

Total Budget (INR):

Organizations involved