(Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research) The rhizosphere is home to a rich microbial diversity. The metabolites secreted by the roots (products of root exudation) are known to shape the composition of the root microbiota. However, until recently it was not known if or how the microbiota in turn impact root exudation. Scientists have discovered that microbial communities can effect specific systemic changes in tomato root exudation via root-to-root signalling. The underlying process was termed as ‘systematically induced root exudation of metabolites’ (SIREM).

Original source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-02/liop-bi-020720.php