The soil microbiome modulates the sorghum root metabolome and cellular traits with a concomitant reduction of Striga infection

The soil microbiome protects sorghum, and likely other crops, from infection with the root parasite Striga hermonthica. Kawa et al. show that soil-borne bacteria modify sorghum root development and root exudate content, likely preventing Striga from penetrating sorghum. This study provides a framework for developing microbial-based solutions for Striga infestation.

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