In Print: ‘Protocols in Root-Microbe Interactions’

Publication title

Protocols in Root-Microbe Interactions

Purdue author

Anjali Iyer-Pascuzzi

Publisher

Purdue University Press

Publication date

Feb. 15, 2026

About the book (from the publisher)

“Protocols in Root-Microbe Interactions” describes laboratory protocols that have been developed and optimized for scientists working in root-microbe interactions, specifically for those wanting to quantify immune responses in plant roots. The experiments are focused on cellular to whole-root scale and include molecular biology, biochemistry and histology techniques. Written in an easy-to-understand fashion that is suitable for both early career and experienced scientists, the protocols were optimized for tomato roots but can easily be adapted to roots of other plant species or, if needed, to leaves. The book includes information on quantifying pattern-triggered immune responses in plant roots and covers reactive oxygen species burst, mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation, root growth inhibition and qualitative callose deposition. Other topics examined include transient expression of bacterial proteins in leaves and root sectioning (from a microtome and vibratome) and histology assays for both light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. A variety of other protocols explored relate to the isolation of bacteria from the root endosphere and rhizosphere, and the extraction of DNA from root-associated bacteria. “Protocols in Root-Microbe Interactions” serves as an invaluable resource for those working in the root-microbe field and can be optimized for other laboratories’ needs.

About the Purdue author

Anjali Iyer-Pascuzzi is professor of botany and plant pathology whose research focuses on plant-microbe interactions across scales from cells to organs. Much of the research in her lab is centered on the interaction between tomato roots and a soilborne bacterial pathogen. Iyer-Pascuzzi is the recipient of the New Innovator Award from the Foundation for Food and Agricultural Research and the Outstanding Graduate Mentor and Teacher Award from Purdue’s College of Agriculture.

About the In Print series

To celebrate our faculty’s excellence in scholarship, Purdue Today’s weekly book series highlights faculty expertise across diverse subjects and disciplines. Find out more about the Purdue University Books Initiative and how to suggest a book for the In Print series on the Office of the Provost website.