Plant-Fungal Symbiosis

During this summer, I worked on the symbiotic interaction between Medicago truncatula and glomeromycotan fungi. My project was focused on the study of nutrient transporters present in root cell colonized by these mycorrhizal fungi. Therefore, I examined several single and double mutant phenotypes by using microscopic techniques and semi quantitative polymerase chain reaction. I found several discrepancies in total arbuscule number and gene expression between the mutants and wild type plants. Taken together, these data revealed the necessary presence of these transporters for a functional symbiosis.

In conclusion, I learned to work with a plant-fungal symbiosis and understood its ecological and possible economical benefits. I learned many different techniques and I really enjoyed my time working at BTI and have continued this project throughout the school year.

My Experience

During this summer, I worked on the symbiotic interaction between Medicago truncatula and glomeromycotan fungi. My project was focused on the study of nutrient transporters present in root cell colonized by these mycorrhizal fungi.