“Chromoplast” development in arbuscular mycorrhizal roots

Plastids are key biosynthetic organelles in the formation of the symbiotic interface of the AM symbiosis. Their role during arbuscule decomposition is less understood, although they are involved in marked cytological and metabolic changes during this phase. These changes include the activation of carotenoid biosynthesis, resulting in the accumulation of carotenoid degradation products in many plants and the formation of large tubular structures arranged in a network-like fashion.