Air humidity is a circadian Zeitgeber influencing plant-microbe interactions
M. MWIMBA (1) (1) Duke University, U.S.A.

Rotation of the Earth produces rhythmic environmental cues which dictate plant metabolism and immunity. For example, light and temperature cycles  are key determinant for microbial invasion and host evasion. However, little is known about the influence of air humidity on plant-microbe interactions at the molecular level. Here we report that the oscillation of air humidity reinforces the clock and improves plant immunity in a circadian clock-dependent manner. Our findings suggest that plants perceive signals from air humidity to strategically deploy defence and maximize their own fitness. 

Abstract Number: P7-195
Session Type: Poster