Signals regulating production and exudation of strigolactones

Abstract

Strigolactones released into rhizosphere are important host-recognition signals to commence parasitism by root parasitic plants and mutualism by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Effects of phosphate fertilization on production and exudation of strigolactones were examined in a split-root system of sorghum. Phosphate fertilization to one side of the split-root reduced strigolactone exudation in the other side indicating that the exudation was regulated systemically. In addition, an increase of phosphate level in shoots but not the level itself appeared to reduce production and exudation of strigolactones.