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​​​​​​​​Concurrent Sessions​

​​​Explore Exciting Topics in Plant-Microbe Interaction Research at the 2025 IS-MPMI Congress

​​The 2025 IS-MPMI Congress offers an extensive lineup of concurrent sessions showcasing cutting-edge research, fostering collaboration, and inspiring innovative approaches in plant-microbe interactions. This year's sessions cover topics from resistance genetics and symbiosis to​ microbial strategies and synthetic biology.​​
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Crop Resi​​​​​​​stance Genetics and Genomics

​This session aims to highlight advancements in identifying crop resistance and susceptibility genes, and understanding their mechanism. It will cover novel resistance gene discoveries through pan-genome and multi-omics approaches, durable resistance trait stacking, innovative genome engineering strategies, and integration into breeding programs.​​

​​​ Peter Dodds, Chair CSIRO

​​ Brande Wulff, Chair King Abdullah University of Science and Technology​

​​Discrimination of Friend from Foe

Plants constantly coexist with array of microorganisms, some of which can be beneficial or pathogenic. Thus, they must adeptly differentiate between these to either promote symbiosis or activate defences. At the same time, some beneficial non-symbiotic microbes have valuable biocontrol properties, an interaction that the plant also needs to assist. Intricate signalling mechanisms enable this distinction, including transcriptional and post-translational regulation and complex molecular scenarios still-to-be-understood compromising different biomolecule cocktails. This session delves into the molecular intricacies of plant-microbe interactions, showcasing research from both host and intruder perspectives. By unravelling how these modifications shape outcomes, it promises to illuminate the dynamic interplay at the heart of plant protection, offering a compelling topic for the plant immunity community.

​​ Ari Sadanandom, Chair  Durham University

​ Clara Sánchez-Rodríguez, Chair Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)​

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Microbial pathogens, nematodes, and arthropods manipulate plant processes through effectors that target defenses and developmental pathways, including those driving the formation of elaborate galls. These effectors often promote the growth and survival of plant colonizers while exposing critical plant processes, akin to Achilles' heels, essential for plant function. Studying effectors and their targets reveals opportunities to enhance crop production and identify cellular pathways with applications beyond plant biology. This session highlights the remarkable actions of effectors and their transformative potential in advancing agricultural and biological research.​

​​​ Saskia Hogenhout, Chair Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park

​ Joo Hyun Lee, Chair Plant Immunity Research Center, Seoul National University

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Emerging and Re-emerging Pathosystems

A constant challenge in agriculture is the emergence of new plant diseases. Correct identification and characterisation of emerging pathogens is essential for the development of effective control strategies. In addition, understanding the evolutionary origin of new pathogens in agricultural production systems may help to prevent future outbreaks. This session aims to present research on emerging plant pathogens, including genome-based studies intended at identifying genetic changes associated with new adaptive strategies. The session will emphasise the importance of correct diagnostics and characterisation of genetic diversity at local and global scales to infer the evolutionary potential of emerging plant pathogens.​​

​ Eva Stukenbrock, Chair University of Kiel

​ Sylvain Raffaele, Chair Université de Toulouse, LIPM INRA-CNRS

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Engineering Plant-Microbe Traits

This session explores pioneering approaches in synthetic biology and artificial intelligence to engineer plant-microbe traits. It will cover how AI-driven protein design and synthetic biology approaches can support novel plant functions and influence plant-microbe interactions. Key topics include enhancing plant nutrition by engineering endogenous nitrogen fixation and developing advanced strategies for disease resistance. The session will present research focused on interdisciplinary solutions for agricultural sustainability, exploring how computational tools and bioengineering can contribute to advancements in plant science and address challenges in global food security.​​

​ Adam Bentham, Chair Durham University

​​ Luis Rubio, Chair Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)​​

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Extracellular & Intracellular Non-self Recognition & Signaling

Large panels of plant cell-surface and intracellular receptors recognize invading pathogens and activate immune responses which prevent or slow disease. This session aims to highlight recent advances in understanding mechanisms of host-pathogen recognition, immunity signaling and convergent defense execution pathways. We hope to cover genetic, genomic, biochemical and structural insights into immunity homeostasis and activation as well as the co-evolutionary dynamics of plant-microbe interactions impacting disease, emphasizing cutting-edge research in pattern- and effector-triggered immunity.​

​ Kee Hoon Sohn, Chair Seoul National University

​ Jane Parker, Chair MPIPZ

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Local and Inter-organ Signaling in Immunity and Mutualistic Interactions

Plants rely on both short- and long-distance immune signaling networks to halt and prevent microbial infections. However, these networks are frequently targeted by mutualistic and pathogenic microbes to facilitate infections. Recent advancements have even suggested the existence of a connection between peptides produced in the roots, which are associated with plant growth and nutrition status, and leaf immune responses. This further expands the scope of questions regarding inter-organ signaling in both pathogenic and mutualistic interactions. In this session, we aim to present our current understanding of local and inter-organ signaling in plant immunity, encompassing both priming the host immune system against future pathogenic infections and enhancing plant nutrition through mutualism. ​​

​Jean Greenberg, Chair University of Chicago

​ Charles Roussin-Léveillée​, Chair Geldner Laboratory - Université de Lausanne

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Management of Diseases and Emerging Diseases

Emerging and established plant diseases pose a significant threat to global food security, challenging efforts to sustainably feed a growing population. This session will explore innovative, environmentally friendly strategies for disease management, including genetic resistance and integrated pest management. Emphasising translational science, we will showcase successful examples of how lab-based discoveries have been effectively implemented in field applications, benefiting both commercial agriculture and smallholder farmers. Additionally, we will highlight the benefits of public-private partnerships in accelerating innovation and scaling solutions to address diverse agricultural needs globally.​

​ Leena Tripathi, Chair CGIAR

​ Kamil Witek, Chair 2Blades

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Microbe-mediated Impacts on Plant-Parasite Interactions​

Microbe-mediated plant-insect interactions are a complex and rapidly expanding field of research. Soil microbial communities influence trophic interactions above and below ground, shaping plant, herbivore, and microbial dynamics. Beneficial soil microbes can enhance plant pest resistance, while insect herbivory induces root-exuded chemicals that attract specific microbes. Microbes associated with phytophagous insects further modulate insect-plant interactions by altering immune signaling, stress-related phytohormones, and inter-kingdom communication, as well as detoxifying plant defense compounds. These intricate interactions reveal the critical roles of microbes in shaping plant and insect ecology, emphasizing their broader ecological and evolutionary significance.​

Nina Fatouros, Chair Wageningen University & Research

​​Lingfei Hu, Chair Zhejiang University ​​​​​

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Microbial Infection Strategies (Pathogens & Non-pathogens)

This session explores the diverse strategies which microbes employ to establish interactions with plants, whether as pathogens or beneficial partners. Beyond defence suppression, it could investigate microbe-targeted plant pathways for nutrient acquisition, manipulation of plant signaling networks, and adaptation towards niche colonization. The session also invites abstracts to cover, how microbes balance resource competition and host compatibility, revealing the ecological dynamics of infection strategies and vector-borne diseases. Presentations will highlight cutting-edge research that unravels these mechanisms and their evolutionary drivers, as well as potential applications in sustainable agriculture.

​ Armin Djamei, Chair University of Bonn

​ Amey Redkar, Chair National Centre for Biological Sciences

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Nutrient exchange & Role of Metabolites in Plant-microbe Interactions

The co-evolution of plants and associated microbes includes optimization of nutrient exchange/acquisition for recognition, growth and development, defense, and signaling. This session will highlight novel mechanistic work exploring the metabolic interconnections and control points governing plant-microbe interactions, including that of obligate plant biotrophs with their associated hosts.​

​ Ertao Wang, Chair CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences

​ Mary Wildermuth, Chair University of California, Berkeley

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Plant Interactions with Nematodes & Parasitic Plants

This session brings together cutting-edge research on plant-nematode and plant-parasitic plant interactions. Discover how molecular mechanisms shape these complex relationships, driving both parasitism and defense strategies. From signaling pathways to host manipulation, this session covers the genetic and biochemical underpinnings of these interactions. Join us to uncover shared themes and unique strategies employed by parasitic organisms, fostering discussions that can inspire innovative approaches in plant protection and sustainable agriculture.​

​Xiaoli Guo, Chair Huazhong Agricultural University

​ Ken Shirasu, Chair RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science

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Plant Microbiota Functions and Intermicrobial Interactions

This session will explore the latest findings on plant-microbiome interactions, highlighting factors that influence the assembly of plant-associated microbial communities and their roles in plant biology. Key topics include plant and microbial traits that shape these interactions, mechanisms of microbial community establishment, and the impacts on plant health and development. We also aim to discuss how these dynamic relationships affect plant resilience, growth, and adaptation in various environments.​

​ Yang Bai, Chair Chinese Academy of Sciences

​Pau​lo Teixeira, Chair University of São Paulo​

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Plant Regulation of Biotic and Abiotic Stress - Trade-offs

MPMI research in the past few decades has focused on elucidating the genetic and biochemical mechanisms in plants and/or microbes. Looking ahead, an important area that needs increased attention is the poorly understood interplays between abiotic and biotic signaling pathways, which gate the effectiveness of plant-microbial interactions and often play a decisive role in shaping disease or symbiosis outcomes in natural settings. This concurrent session will highlight this important topic by discussing the impact of abiotic conditions on disease and symbiosis development. To feature the newest results, most presentations will be selected from abstracts.​

​ Kenichi Tsuda, Chair Huazhong Agricultural University

​ Sheng Yang He, Chair Duke University​

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Plant-virus Interactions (including Viromes, Evolution & Vectors)

The session "Plant-virus Interactions (including Viromes, Evolution & Vectors)" strives to strengthen integration of plant virology with other fields in the plant-microbe interactions community while highlighting the most exciting discoveries on the topic and the most pressing questions that remain to be addressed. The study of plant viruses is of huge importance both because of their negative impact on crop production and because of their utility as tools to investigate molecular biological processes. This session will highlight groundbreaking discoveries on virus-host interactions, viral evolution, and vector biology, as well as the use of viruses as tools to study molecular mechanisms in plants. By fostering connections between virology and the broader molecular plant-microbe interactions (MPMI) community, we aim to spark cross-disciplinary collaborations, inspire young talent, and address pressing questions that will shape the future of plant virology and agriculture.​

​ Laura Medina-Puch​e, Chair​ University of Tübingen

​ Murilo Zerbini, Chair Federal University of Viçosa

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Population Biology, Ecology & Genomics

Plants and microbes exist as populations in complex ecological contexts. Plants recruit microbes as a function of their genotype and ecological niche, while microbes interact with plants and with each other in intricate networks. This session explores plant-microbe interactions at the population level. We invite abstracts on evolutionary and population genomic consequences of plant-pathogen/microbiome interactions and on the ecological and evolutionary impact of specific plant and microbial molecular features. The latest developments in these fields will be highlighted.​

​ Stig Andersen, Chair Aarhus University

​ Honour McCann, Chair University of Tübingen

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RNA on the Move: Advances in Cross-Species Communication & Translational Research

The session "RNA on the Move: Advances in Cross-Species Communication & Translational Research" will explore the pivotal role of RNA molecules in mediating communication across species boundaries, particularly in plant-microbe and host-pathogen interactions. Leading experts will present cutting-edge research on mobile RNAs, including dsRNAs, tRNAs, small RNAs and mRNAs, highlighting their roles in signaling, defense, and pathogenicity. The session will also emphasize translational applications, such as RNA-based technologies for crop protection and enhanced agricultural sustainability. By bridging fundamental discoveries with innovative solutions, this session aims to foster discussions on leveraging RNA biology to address global challenges in agriculture and ecosystem health.

​ Roger Innes, Chair Indiana University

​Mahmut Tör, Chair University of Worcester

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Spatial & Temporal Resolution of the Interaction Interface

Plant-microbe interactions are heterogeneous due to the diversity of cell types within tissues, the uneven distribution of microbial niches, and the asynchronous nature of individual cellular interactions. This heterogeneity can obscure fundamental principles of cellular interactions when analyzed at the tissue scale. This session will bring together researchers–across geography, career stages and experimental systems–interested in discerning the heterogeneity at the plant-microbe interface in space and time. In addition, it will be of particular interest to those interested in exploring the potential of the latest imaging and genomics techniques, including single-cell and spatial omics technologies, in advancing MPMI research.​

​Tatsuya Nobori, Chair The Sainsbury Laboratory

​ Unnati Sonawala, Chair University of Cambridge

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Structure Informed Synthetic Biology: From Design to Function

This session examines how structural biology informs the engineering of plant immune receptors and signalling pathways. We seek abstracts on structure-guided approaches to engineer immune recognition specificity and modify signalling networks. Areas include computational prediction of receptor-ligand interactions, experimental validation of engineered immune components, and development of screening platforms. We welcome work combining structural analysis with functional studies in plant immunity. Of particular interest are studies addressing technical challenges in synthetic biology approaches to plant immunity, including receptor stability optimization, achieving signalling specificity, and rational design of novel recognition capabilities.​​

​ Mark Banfield, Chair John Innes Centre

Jiorgos Kourelis, Chair Imperial University​

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Subcellular Dynamics and Signaling in Host-microbe Interactions

Subcellular dynamics and signalling play a pivotal role in shaping host-microbe interactions, ranging from symbiotic to pathogenic. Host cells respond to microbial cues through intricate signalling pathways, driving changes in subcellular molecular dynamics that either favour the accommodation of symbionts or halt pathogenic infections. Microbes, in turn, manipulate host processes to ensure their survival, colonization, or immune evasion. This session aims to present the latest advances in uncovering how molecular signals and subcellular trafficking, or compartmentalization of key signalling components, orchestrate host defence mechanisms, pathogen strategies, and symbiotic relationships.​

​ Myriam Charpentier, Chair John Innes Centre

​ Wen Song, Chair China Agricultural University

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Symbiosis and Mutualism (Mycorrhiza and N-fixing Rhizobia)

​Mutualistic symbioses between plants and fungi or bacteria are based on the exchange of nutrients and are characterized by reciprocal benefits and close physical interaction, including in most cases accommodation of the microbes inside host cells. This requires fine-tuned signaling and cellular remodeling of both partners to reach and maintain compatibility, and to terminate the interaction in a timely manner to prevent parasitism. In this session we highlight recent findings on signaling, development, regulation, functioning, molecular diversity and evolution of mutualistic plant-microbe symbioses.​​​

​​ Caroline Gutjahr, Chair Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology

​ Georgina Hernández Delgado, Chair Center for Genomic Sciences - National University of Mexico (UNAM)​ ​

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