Integrated single-nucleus and spatial transcriptomics captures transitional states in soybean nodule symbiosis establishment

Abstract

Legumes form symbiosis with rhizobium leading to the development of nitrogen-fixing nodules. By integrating single-nucleus and spatial transcriptomics, we established a cell atlas of soybean nodules and roots. In central infected zone of nodule, we found that uninfected cells specialize into functionally distinct sub-groups during nodule development and revealed a transitional subtype of infected cells with enriched nodulation-related genes. Overall, our results provide a single-cell perspective for understanding rhizobium-legume symbiosis.

Dancing to a different tune, can we switch from chemical to biological nitrogen fixation for sustainable food security?

“…Key to this question is a high degree of cellular resolution of the developmental processes associated with nodulation. The emergence of spatial omics, such as single-cell sequencing, as well as spatial transcriptomics [154] will facilitate such resolution. The concept of renetworking preexisting processes creates a realistic challenge for transferring nitrogen fixation: consider this over building entire signal transduction pathways or developmental processes from scratch.…”