This Research Topic addresses the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the symbiotic interaction between legumes species (bean plants) and bacteria of the Rhizobium genus (Rhizobia). We focus on the identification of novel genes governing the symbiotic process through molecular genetics approaches.

Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, development, and productivity. Legumes are unique in agricultural systems because of their ability to fix atmospheric Nitrogen through symbiotic interaction with soil bacteria called rhizobia, a process called Biological Nitrogen Fixation (BNF). BNF is an economically beneficial and environmentally sound alternative to chemical fertilizers, and is increasingly important in sustainable crop production.

Most rhizobia infect legume roots to form root nodules where BNF occurs, and this process is governed by a host genetic program that synchronizes two parallel processes: rhizobium infection and nodule organogenesis. Several plant genes and molecules involved in legume symbiosis have been identified and characterized, revealing a complex biological process controlled by the host plant. Identification and characterization of the molecular mechanisms underlying symbiotic nodule development and nitrogen fixation in legume plants are essential to optimize BNF in legumes and to possibly engineer BNF in non-legume crops.

This Research Topic welcomes manuscripts addressing the fundamental science of - and future perspectives on - the molecular genetics of legume symbiosis. We particularly welcome studies focused on:
- plant hormone regulation of rhizobial infection, nodulation, and nitrogen fixation
- novel genes or gene networks controlling common symbiosis signal transduction pathways
- large-scale genomic and transcriptomic analyses of symbiotic processes
- cross talk between plant immune system and symbiosis
- microRNA regulation of rhizobial infection, nodulation, and nitrogen fixation
- Regulatory peptides controlling rhizobial infection, nodulation, and nitrogen fixation
- epigenetic controls of rhizobial infection, nodulation, and nitrogen fixation

We welcome Mini-Reviews, Opinions, Perspectives, Hypothesis, and Original Research articles.

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Frontiers in Plant Science

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