During their lifetime, plants are exposed to both pathogenic and beneficial microorganisms. Some plants provide shelter within their bodies for beneficial microorganisms.
These beneficial microorganisms help plants that have not been genetically modified to resist pathogenic microorganisms.
The beneficial microorganisms may be providing protection by
- Synthesising toxins that kill pathogenic microorganisms.
- Providing a permeable physical barrier to pathogenic microorganisms.
- Stimulating the production of antibodies against pathogenic microorganisms.
- Mobilising the cells of the third line of defence against pathogenic microorganisms.