Cell Wall-Derived Oligosaccharides as Signalling Molecules

Plant cell walls are far more than passive structural barriers — they are dynamic, highly responsive interfaces that actively participate in plant interactions with their biotic environment. When cell walls are remodelled during biotic interactions, oligosaccharide fragments are released that act as potent signals, mediating communication between interacting organisms and shaping the outcome of those interactions. Despite their biological importance, the full scope of oligosaccharide diversity, perception, and signalling roles remains incompletely understood.This Research Topic aims to advance our understanding of cell wall-derived oligosaccharides across the full range of plant biotic interactions. It brings together research on the spatiotemporal dynamics of biologically active oligosaccharides, their perception by plant immune receptors, the signalling pathways they regulate, and their roles across pathogenic, mutualistic, and herbivore interactions. We also encourage contributions exploring their potential application in immune priming for sustainable crop protection.We welcome original research articles, reviews, and methods papers addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Recognition of cell wall-derived oligosaccharides by plant immune receptors (pattern recognition receptors; PRRs)- Downstream immune signalling cascades and defence responses activated by oligosaccharide perception- Role of oligosaccharides in pathogenic and mutualistic plant–microbe interactions- Roles of oligosaccharides in plant–herbivore interactions, including insects, nematodes, and other pests- In vivo characterisation, quantification, and spatiotemporal dynamics of oligosaccharides during biotic interactions- Cross-talk between oligosaccharide signalling and other pathways regulating plant immunity, development, and stress responses- Cell wall-derived oligosaccharides as tools for immune priming, crop protection, and sustainable agriculture Topic editors: Katarzyna Otulak-Kozieł, Alvaro Daniel Fernandez-Fernandez, Asier Largo-Gosens Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/82253/cell-wall-derived-oligosaccharides-as-signalling-molecules