From small signals to big changes: the crucial role of a small signaling peptide in plant responses to microbial volatiles

Authors

  • Rafael Jorge León Morcillo Institute for Mediterranean and Subtropical Horticulture "La Mayora” image/svg+xml
    Spain

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24310/enbio.17.192.2025.22864

Keywords:

microbial volatile compounds, ethylene, signaling peptide, RALF

Abstract

The interaction between plants and microorganisms involves bidirectional chemical communication,
which is essential during the early stages of symbiosis. Both plants and microorganisms emit chemical signals to attract
or alert their presence. Among these signals, microorganisms produce and release volatile compounds. These compounds
are not only crucial for establishing symbiosis but also induce plant growth and stress tolerance. Furthermore, microbial
volatile compounds can modulate root system architecture. These changes are associated with the reprogramming of
the root proteome and the modulation of ethylene and auxin signaling pathways. A key component in modifying root
morphology is the signaling peptide RALF22 and its receptor FERONIA, which are essential for root hair elongation
and proliferation. In addition, fungal ethylene plays a crucial role in these processes, as its production is required to
induce morphological changes in roots.

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References

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Published

2026-01-24

Dimensions

PlumX

Citations

How to Cite

León Morcillo, R. J. (2026). From small signals to big changes: the crucial role of a small signaling peptide in plant responses to microbial volatiles. Encuentros En La Biología, 17(192), 34-36. https://doi.org/10.24310/enbio.17.192.2025.22864