Despite its prevalence worldwide, ectomycorrhizal symbiosis is poorly researched. In my thesis, I reviewed research where scientists discovered the importance of various hormones, proteins, and genes necessary for the formation and proper functioning of mycorrhizal symbiosis. Plant hormones are very important for allowing plants and fungi to recognize each other, as it is crucial that both organisms can produce and perceive each other’s molecular signals. In addition to their role in the very beginning of mycorrhizal symbiosis, hormones are also necessary for its maintenance and regulation. Certain genes of the host plant are also important as the absence of them prevents formation of ectomycorrhiza. Scientists have investigated the symbiotic system between the fungus Laccaria bicolor and the tree Populus trichocarpa. Using various methods (mutation search, genotyping, gene mapping), the PtLecRLK1 gene was discovered, which was concluded to be crucial in establishing ectomycorrhiza between L. bicolor and P. trichocarpa. The gene was transferred into the Arabidopsis thaliana plant, which does not naturally form mycorrhiza with said fungus. The transgenic plant showed the ability to form ectomycorrhizal symbiosis with L. bicolor. Based on these findings, the hypothesis of the importance of the PtLecRLK1 gene holds.
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