AM fungal exudates activate MAP kinases in plant cells in dependence from cytosolic Ca2+ increase

► MAPK activation is induced by AM fungal exudates (FE) in cultured cells of leguminous and non-leguminous plants. ► FE induce also a transient [Ca2+]cyt increase. ► MAPK activation by FE is dependent on the [Ca2+]cyt increase.► the Sym component Castor is needed for full MAPK activation by FE.