The fungus Mortierella elongata enjoys a close association with the fast-growing poplar tree (Populus trichocarpa), a potential biofuel feedstock. Scientists routinely spot the fungus near the tree or in between its root cells. To better understand their relationship, a team of scientists has studied the effect of the fungus on the tree’s physical traits and gene expression, finding the fungus induces some notable metabolic changes. Click here to read the science highlight on the JGI website.
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