Study shows weak external electric fields may protect crops from infection

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Schematic of the 3D-printed V-box set-up for root infection assays with P. palmivora zoospores in the presence of external electric fields. The negative and positive electrodes are connected to an external power supply. (A) Global electric field set-up. The roots are enveloped in a constant ionic current. (B) Local electric field set-up. The electrodes are mounted in a mock root located on one side of the V-box, so roots are not enveloped in the ionic current. (C) Mock root used to generate the local electric field, with slots used to insert the positive and negative electrodes. Credit: Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68730-y

Research from Dr. Giovanni Sena's group in the Department of Life Sciences highlights an intriguing method to help protect plants from pathogen attacks using weak electric fields.

By placing electric fields near plant roots, the team showed it is possible to partially shield them from the harmful spores of pathogens.

The approach works because certain spores, such as those of Phytophthora palmivora, which attacks palms and nuts, are electrotactic—meaning they are naturally drawn to electric charges.

The findings are published in the journal Scientific Reports.

In earlier work, the same group quantified this electrotactic behavior, revealing how P. palmivora spores are attracted to positive electrodes.

Now, the group has shown that placing a device that generates such a field near the roots of plants like Arabidopsis and Medicago can significantly reduce the number of spores that attach to them.

Dr. Sena said, "These exciting results open the possibility of developing new tools for crop protection, based on host-pathogen bioelectric interactions and not requiring genetic modifications or pesticides."

More information: Eleonora Moratto et al, Reduction of Phytophthora palmivora plant root infection in weak electric fields, Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68730-y

Journal information: Scientific Reports

Provided by Imperial College London