T. Zuest

The lactonase BxdA mediates metabolic adaptation of maize root bacteria to benzoxazinoids

The paper identifies BxdA, a lactonase in maize root bacteria, which enables metabolic adaptation to benzoxazinoids, enhancing bacterial growth under carbon limitation.

Soil chemistry determines whether defensive plant secondary metabolites promote or suppress herbivore growth

The paper shows that soil iron levels determine whether maize benzoxazinoids promote or suppress fall armyworm growth.

Complex plant metabolomes guide fitness-relevant foraging decisions of a specialist herbivore

This study shows how western corn rootworm integrates sugar and benzoxazinoid cues for foraging, with sugars aiding host finding and benzoxazinoids influencing acceptance, both improving growth and survival.

Less Is More: A Mutation in the Chemical Defense Pathway of Erysimum cheiranthoides (Brassicaceae) Reduces Total Cardenolide Abundance but Increases Resistance to Insect Herbivores

This study shows a mutation in Erysimum cheiranthoides reduces total cardenolide abundance but increases resistance to two herbivore species.

Tissue-specific volatile-mediated defense regulation in maize leaves and roots

This study investigates whether maize roots respond to herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) like leaves, finding no significant changes in root traits or herbivore resistance.

Variation in root secondary metabolites is shaped by past climatic conditions

The paper examines how past climatic conditions influence root secondary metabolites in Taraxacum officinale, finding strong associations with climate rather than current environmental factors.