P-268 - Understanding the mechanisms of plant growth promotion of the fungal endophyte Colletotrichum tofieldiae in tomato

Plant-microbe interactions play a crucial role in plant growth and nutrient acquisition. The fungal endophyte Colletotrichum tofieldiae (Ct) colonizes Arabidopsis thaliana roots and promotes growth under phosphate (Pi)-deficient conditions. Recent studies indicate that Ct also enhances the growth of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and maize (Zea mays L.), but its molecular regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigates how Ct promotes tomato growth by integrating physiological and molecular approaches. We have quantified biomass accumulation and nutrient absorption in Ct-inoculated plants under greenhouse conditions. Moreover, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses will be conducted to generate data for subsequent investigations into the molecular mechanisms underlying Ct-mediated plant growth promotion. By elucidating Ct-induced genes and molecular pathways, this research will enhance our understanding of the interactions of endophytic fungi with different hosts, and their potential as biostimulants. The findings will provide a foundation for future applications in microbial-based agricultural technologies.