Masters of manipulation: how our molecular understanding of model symbiotic fungi and their hosts is changing the face of “mutualism”

Ectomycorrhizal (ECMECM) fungi are soil-borne organisms found predominantly in forest environments where they colonize the roots of trees and shrubs to gain nutrients that support growth. Classed as mutualisticmutualistic fungi, this group of organisms also supports their host plants through a variety of mechanisms. However, to gain a foothold in these competitive environments, ECM fungi have evolved the ability to manipulate both their host plants and other organisms to carve a significant niche. In this chapter, using well-established and developing models, we will consider the role of ECM fungal signals involved in the structuring of their environment during the colonization of soil and plant tissues. We will also give an overview of the different signaling network hubs that ECM fungi must overcome or control to establish a nutrient exchange between both partners. We will conclude with the outlook in this area of research and future directions that are necessary to further our understanding of how fungal mutualismmutualism evolved and how to manage these symbioses under variable climate scenarios.