Cross-kingdom RNA interference promotes arbuscular mycorrhiza development

Nature Plants 2026 Open access

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Authors: Annika Usländer, Manisha V. Haag, An-Po Cheng, Bernhard Lederer, Jin Yan Khoo, Florian Dunker, Iván F. Acosta, Arne Weiberg, Caroline Gutjahr
DOI: 10.1038/s41477-026-02247-2
Cited by: 6
References: 44

Abstract

Cross-kingdom RNA interference is an emerging concept in plant-pathogen interactions. Here we provide evidence that cross-kingdom RNA interference also occurs in a beneficial plant symbiosis called arbuscular mycorrhiza. The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizophagus irregularis transfers small RNAs into plant cells, promoting the colonization of host roots. This finding establishes inter-organismal RNA communication as a new regulatory mechanism of this ancient and widespread symbiosis.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions Plant Reproductive Biology Plant Molecular Biology Research

Publication details

Journal / source
Nature Plants
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
12
Issue
4
Pages
695–702
Publication date
11 March 2026
Language
EN