Transcriptomics reveal a mechanism of niche defense: two beneficial root endophytes deploy an antimicrobial GH18‐CBM5 chitinase to protect their hosts
Effector secretion is crucial for root endophytes to establish and protect their ecological niche. We used time-resolved transcriptomics to monitor effector gene expression dynamics in two closely related Sebacinales, Serendipita indica and Serendipita vermifera, during symbiosis with three plant species, competition with the phytopathogenic fungus Bipolaris sorokiniana, and cooperation with root-associated bacteria. We observed increased… [Read More]