Scientists from INRA and Lorraine University in France
unraveled a key mechanism in the symbiosis between fungi and trees. During this
mutually beneficial interaction, the fungus takes control of its host plant by
injecting a small protein that neutralizes its immune defenses thereby allowing
the fungus to colonize the plant. This finding is a major advance in our
understanding of the evolution and functioning of symbiotic interactions
between fungi and plants - relationships that play a significant role in
supporting the health and sustainability of our natural ecosystems. These
results are published in the advance online edition of the PNAS on 19 May 2014.