Microbial networks for sustainable ecosystems

Technical Summary

The inventors developed a technology based on large-scale DNA analysis that identifies symbiotic networks between plants and microorganisms in the underground soil. The composition and function of microbiomes is assessed and changes in microbiota due to environmental factors can be estimated.By identifying ‘core microbiomes’, sets of microorganisms that form cores of interactions, the researchers then use them to optimize microbial functions at the individual plant and ecosystem levels (Fig. 1,Toju et al. 2018). This means that we can utilize natural resilience via enhancing the microbial communication network underground.

Figure 1.a) Identification of core microorganisms. Within a microbial network, hub microbial species or strains are defined based on network topology data. Microorganisms are scored based on their potential to recruit native microorganisms with diverse physiological and ecosystem functions (b) and potential for blocking pathogen/pest infection (c). Such roles of core microorganisms can be further reinforced by introducing pairs or sets of core microorganisms in facilitative interactions (d). From Toju et al. (2018) Nature Plants 4:247-257.

Different types of ecosystems can be analyzed including farmlands, forests, grasslands, freshwater and seawater ecosystems. The core specieswith beneficial biological functions　such as　the ability to decompose organic matter, transport soil nutrients, suppress pest/pathogens, and stimulate plants’ immune systems are then chosen to 1) restore natural ecosystems 2) design sustainable ecosystems composed of more resilient species 3) produce enhanced plant seedlings to improve crop characteristics.

The technology was already tested in several plant species (green onions, tomatoes, komatsuna, strawberry; these were chosen for quick PoC) improving the growth and resilience of the crops by enhancing the plant-symbiont relationships (Fig.2). We observed more yield with fewer fertilizer/pesticides. This technology is inherently applicable to grains/trees.

Figure 2. Tomato without symbiotic fungi (left) and tomato with fungi (right).

Sunlit Seedlingsis a spin–off from Kyoto University that develops sustainable agriculture technologies. We are looking for business partners.

Technology Readiness Level:7

Potential Applications:

Sustainable farming

Ecosystem development and restoration

Biodiversity analysis

Information services: analysis of microbiome composition within a host

Advantages:

Sustainable agriculture incl. improved crop yield

Ecosystem restoration following natural disasters

Information-based agricultural cultivation

Possible Collaboration Mode(s):

R&D collaboration

Licensing

Other

Patents No:

WO2022-102389 (USA);特開2022-133839; 特開2022-106643; 特開2022-077963 特開2021- 149918; 特許7038451; 特許6899107; 特許6899107; 特許6899106