Global metabolic changes induced by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in oregano plants grown under ambient and elevated levels of atmospheric CO2

Symbiotic plant-microorganisms interaction is a promising approach to avoid the environmental hazards of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Among these, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to improve the growth and quality of many plant species; however the detailed metabolic mechanisms behind such beneficial effects are far from complete. Further, elevated levels of atmospheric CO2 (eCO2) could affect such AMF-plant association. Herein, we have investigated the individual and synchronous impact of AMF and eCO2 (620 ppm) on nutrient uptake, growth, photosynthesis, respiration, and levels of primary and secondary metabolites in oregano (Oreganum vulgare), an economically important herbal plant. Enhanced AMF colonization rate and a better mycelial growth were observed in roots of oregano grown under eCO2. Both AMF and eCO2 treatments significantly enhanced the growth and photosynthesis of oregano plants, however much improvements were observed by their synchronous application. eCO2 further increased the AMF-induced dark respiration and accumulation of macro and microelements. Hierarchical clustering analysis of individual primary and secondary metabolites revealed a metabolite-dependent response toward AMF and eCO2. The synchronous application of AMF and eCO2 resulted in promoted accumulation of the majority of the detected sugars, organic acids, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, phenolic acids and flavonoids, as compared with the sole treatments. Moreover, AMF and eCO2 acted synergistically in improving the antioxidant capacity and anti-lipid peroxidation activity of oregano. Therefore, this study suggests that AMF treatment induces a global metabolic change in oregano, the effect that is strengthened under eCO2. [Display omitted] •AMF colonization and hyphal growth are improved under the eCO2 climate.•The impact of AMF on levels of most mineral nutrients is more obvious under eCO2.•AMF and eCO2 act synergistically to enhance the growth and photosynthesis of oregano.•AMF-induced global metabolic change is strengthened by eCO2.•Oregano metabolites respond differently to AMF and eCO2 treatments.