The basic molecular mechanisms by which bacterial endophytes improve plant growth and health and reduce phytotoxic responses and promote remediation are not well understood. To learn more, one approach is to use the RB-TnSeq approach to elucidate which genes are required for N2-fixation by a diazotrophic endophyte of poplar. Using the same approach, researchers then plan to decipher the genes necessary for an endophyte strain capable of bioremediation to grow when faced with organic and inorganic pollutants or high salinity. Finally, the team will use the RB-TnSeq approach in both of these endophyte strains to determine genes required for effective plant colonization. The researchers will probe this complex phenotype using a variety of media parameters and methods to divide colonization into selectable steps.
Proposer: Sharon Doty, University of Washington