| Detail |
I. Rhizoremediation of recalcitrant organic pollutants using Sudangrass
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are carcinogenic pollutants
released in the environment through the combustion of organic materials. Due to
their stable chemical structure, they tend to accumulate in soil and present
health risks. Rhizoremediation is one method to degrade these compounds
using bacteria associated with the roots of plants. Here, we show how planting
Sudangrass (Sorghum x drummondii) effectively degrades PAHs in the soil by
cultivating Sphingomonadaceae in its rhizosphere. Further, using hydroponics,
factors such as pH and plant age were identified to be crucial in the effective
utilization of this technique.
II. Multifaceted approach for controlling fungal diseases in Gentians
Gentians (Gentiana triflora, G. scabra and their interhybrids) are
important horticultural crops especially in Iwate Prefecture, where 59% of
domestic supply is sourced. Like other crops, Gentian production is also
afflicted with fungal pathogens. In this study, genetic and microbiological
approaches were applied aiming to build new strategies for fungal disease
control. Specifically, we show that the “blue gene”, F3′5′H, is not only involved in
petal pigmentation but also in foliar disease resistance of Gentian against fungal
pathogens. Moreover, beneficial bacteria capable of inhibiting fungal growth
through volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were isolated and identified. |
