Integrated analysis of mineral ion dynamics in rice crop exposed to acute herbivory stress

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 21H02196
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B)
• Allocation Type: Single-year Grants
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 39040:Plant protection science-related
• Research Institution: Okayama University
• Principal Investigator: Galis Ivan 岡山大学, 資源植物科学研究所, 教授 (90360502)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): 網干 貴子 山形大学, 農学部, 准教授 (20746705) ; 三谷 奈見季 岡山大学, 資源植物科学研究所, 准教授 (40581020)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: Mineral / Herbivory / Defense

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The aim in this project was to introduce a paradigm shift in perception of minerals as essential components of plant growth to including them as indispensable players in plant defense against biotic stress, including herbivore attack. We particularly highlight the role of silicon in rice defense by showing that Si modulates mechanical resistance of rice against chewing herbivores. In addition, Si shows profound effects on rice defense metabolism, including levels of various primary and secondary metabolites. We further envisage the utilization of nitrogen in stressed plants and propose the importance of nickel in promotion of defense.

Free Research Field

Plant-Insect Interactions

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

Minerals elements play important role in plant growth and subsequently yield of crops, including rice. However, part of the yield is annually lost due to pest damage. Our research results propose novel ways for increasing the crop resistance by supplementation and optimal use of mineral elements.