Plant root injuries unleash pressure waves that travel long distances
Researchers have discovered that plants use rapid pressure waves to communicate physical injury across their root systems. These waves trigger electrical signals and stress hormones in neighboring roots to prepare the plant for potential threats.
Why it matters
Understanding plant communication mechanisms is vital for developing new agricultural strategies to protect crops from pests and environmental damage.
edited by Gaby Clark , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source When plant roots are damaged, a shock wave spreads rapidly throughout the entire root system. Neighboring proteins detect the change and generate electrical signals. These signals trigger the synthesis of stress hormones. Credit: Angel Baudon When plant roots are injured—by insects, for example—the pressure inside the root drops, and a pressure wave spreads rapidly throughout the root system. In neighboring roots, tiny proteins that act as mechanical pressure sensors detect the change and generate electrical and calcium signals.
Ultimately, the injury triggers the production of stress hormones in neighboring roots, preparing them for a potential attack.
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