Fully integrated and comprehensive in its coverage, Root Genomics and Soil Interactions examines the use of genome-based technologies to understand root development and adaptability to biotic and abiotic stresses and changes in the soil environment. Written by an international team of experts in the field, this timely review highlights both model organisms and important agronomic crops. Coverage includes: novel areas unveiled by genomics research basic root biology and genomic approaches applied to analysis of root responses to the soil environment. Each chapter provides a succinct yet thorough review of research.
Developmental plasticity allows higher organisms to adapt to their environment. In contrast to
animals, plants exhibit a remarkable ï¬exibility in their architecture and growth pattern in response
to external conditions, due to the continuously active shoot and root meristems and their capability
to generate new organs after embryogenesis. External cues inï¬uence plant growth by modulating
hormone levels and signaling. The root architecture of the plant constitutes an important model to
study how developmental plasticity is translated into growth responses under different soil conditions
and plays an important role in water and nutrient acquisition. Indeed, primary root development and
the formation of de novomeristems to generate lateral roots are conditioned by the soil environment.
Lateral root growth and development is the main determinant of the shape of the root system, a
trait controlled by internal cues and external factors. In addition to Arabidopsis, there are other
relevant models where genomic information is becoming available, notably cereals and legumes.
Both plants are able to develop symbiotic interactions with soil organisms, namely, mycorrhizal
fungi and, for legumes, soil rhizobia. These interactions lead to further adaptation of root growth,
the so-called mycorrhizal roots, and even to the formation of new organs, distinct from lateral roots,
the nitrogen-ï¬xing root nodules.