Page 37 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 30
P. 37
Food Health
health needs.
ME: It is incredible how you have developed
such a sophisticated defence system! Do you
have any other ways of protecting yourself?
PLANT: Certainly! Another fascinating
defence mechanism I employ is called
induced systemic resistance (ISR). When
pathogens or pests attack me, I activate my
ways of thinking, or people. defence responses at the site of the attack
ME: That’s fascinating! So, physical barriers and throughout my entire system. I produce
help keep pests and pathogens away. Are defence-related compounds like salicylic acid
there any chemical defences that you utilize and jasmonic acid, which trigger immune
as well? responses and enhance my resistance to
PLANT: Yes! I produce a wide range of subsequent attacks. This systemic defensive
chemical compounds that serve as chemical mechanism assists me in fortifying myself
defences. These compounds can deter pests, against potential threats. Assume, for
inhibit the growth of pathogens, or even example, that some animals continue to
attract beneficial organisms. For instance, come in huge numbers to eat my leaves.
when I am under attack, I synthesize In that instance, I will use ISR to boost
antimicrobial compounds called phytoalexins the production of a more bitter and toxic
to limit the spread of pathogens. I also molecule in the leaves to deter the animals.
produce phenolic compounds like tannins and ME: That’s amazing! I am also curious about
lignin, which provide structural reliability to any symbiotic relationships you may have
my tissues and have antimicrobial properties that contribute to your defence.
to ward off pathogens. Other examples PLANT: Symbiotic relationships are indeed
are alkaloids, phenolics, terpenoids, necessary for my defence. I form mutual
and flavonoids. Humans often use these associations with certain fungi called
secondary compounds for their health mycorrhizae. These fungi help me absorb
benefits. nutrients and water more efficiently, which
ME: That’s impressive! Do these chemical boosts my overall health and resilience
defences include any volatile compounds? against dangers. By forming these beneficial
PLANT: I produce essential oils that contain partnerships, I gain an extra layer of
volatile compounds. These compounds have protection and support. In the plant world,
antimicrobial and insecticidal properties. the orientation is cooperation rather than
They can repel pests and inhibit the growth competition.
of microorganisms that might harm me. ME: It is truly fascinating to learn about your
These essential oils play an important role defence strategies! You have an incredible
in protecting me from various threats. The ability to adapt and protect yourself.
excess is used by humans for their own
ISSUE 30 | AUGUST 2024 37
