Dynamic Genomes-Mechanisms and consequences of genomic diversity impacting plant-fungal interactions

The evolution of plant and microbial interactions helps to shape our planet. A major driver of plant and microbial evolution is the selection of beneficial traits borne out of genetic variation. The impact of genetic variation on plant-microbe interactions is well documented, but technological advances have expanded our view of the diversity of genetic variation influencing plant-biotic interactions. The full extent and richness of genomic variation, described here as the dynamic genome, has fueled an amazing array of adaptive traits in plant and microbial populations. In this review, we describe common classes of genetic variation, their mechanisms of generation, examples of their impact on plant-fungal interactions, and technological advancements to define the dynamic genome in plant and fungal systems.