Analysis of Plant Silicon in Plant-Pathogen Interactions

Silicon (Si) is considered as a non-essential element for most plants. However, absence of Si can cause various abnormalities in plant growth and trigger increased susceptibility to pathogen infection. Si protects plants from damage caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and some pests in several ways. Si protects plants in plant-pathogen interactions through physical and biochemical mechanisms. The accumulation of silicon in the epidermal system enhances the plant resistance to diseases. The silicon layer formed under the cuticle provides another physical barrier against pathogens and strengthens the plant. Silicon also can induce the formation and accumulation of antimicrobial compounds, such as phenolics, phytoalexins and momilactones, and activate defense-related enzymes such as peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, lipoxygenase and phenylalanine ammonia lyase. Si can also improve plant mineral nutrient uptake to enhance plant health and thus indirectly increase plant resistance.

STEMart contributes to the study of Si in plant-pathogen interactions to help develop plant protection strategies with Si managing.

Test Capabilities

• Measure the content of Si in plants
• Detect the effects of Si on plant structure and plant-pathogen interaction status
• Study the biochemical mechanisms of Si effects

For more information about our plant silicon analysis service, please contact us.