C. A. M. Robert

The benzoxazinoid breakdown product 5-Methoxy-2-Nitrophenol has a dual function in maize defense against herbivory

This study identifies 5-Methoxy-2-Nitrophenol as a breakdown product of benzoxazinoids in maize that functions as both a direct defense compound and a defense modulator against herbivores.

Bacterial tolerance to host-exuded specialized metabolites structures the maize root microbiome

The paper shows that bacterial tolerance to benzoxazinoids, a type of plant specialized metabolite, determines their abundance in maize root microbiomes.

Plant secondary metabolite-dependent plant-soil feedbacks can improve crop yield in the field

This study shows that maize secondary metabolites improve wheat yield and growth through soil feedbacks in field conditions.

A reductase in the lipid metabolism at cross roads between cuticular wax production and jasmonic acid-mediated defenses in maize

This study identifies ZmGL8 as a key gene regulating the balance between cuticular wax production and jasmonic acid-mediated defenses in maize, showing its role in modulating plant defense responses.

Complex plant metabolomes guide fitness-relevant foraging decisions of a specialist herbivore

This study shows how western corn rootworm integrates sugar and benzoxazinoid cues for foraging, with sugars aiding host finding and benzoxazinoids influencing acceptance, both improving growth and survival.

Plant defense resistance in natural enemies of a specialist insect herbivore

The paper investigates how entomopathogenic nematodes develop resistance to benzoxazinoid metabolites sequestered by a maize herbivore, showing increased infectivity towards the herbivore.

Adapted dandelions increase seed dispersal potential when they are attacked by root herbivores

The paper shows that dandelion populations under high root herbivore pressure increase seed dispersal potential when attacked, but at the cost of reduced germination.