Wheat root ecophysiology: understanding communication between wheat root system and soil microorganisms.

Studies leading to a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the communication between
soil microorganisms and root system can potentially lead to improved fertility management strategies.
Up to now, the characterization of such interactions has been mainly focused on root exsudates but
volatile organic compounds (VOC) also play a role as chemical messengers in positive interactions
occurring in the rhizosphere.
We aim to better understand the VOC-mediated chemical ecophysiology of soil. Wheat (Triticum
aestivum L.) was chosen in this project based on its importance for food production and industrial
applications.