High-throughput live-exudation platform for plant–microbiome screening
The Live-Exudation Assisted Phytobiome Cultromics System (LEAP-CS) is a high-throughput research platform designed for studying the chemical dialogue between plants and their microbiomes. By using a membrane-based co-cultivation method, it enables the analysis of diffusible metabolites and signaling molecules between physically separated plants and microbes. This tool allows researchers to screen plant traits and assess microbiome functionality under various stress conditions, bridging the gap between basic research and agricultural application.
Overview
The Live-Exudation Assisted Phytobiome Cultromics System (LEAP-CS) is a high-throughput research platform developed to investigate the complex chemical interactions between plants and their associated microbiomes. By enabling the co-cultivation of plants and microbes in a membrane-based environment, the system permits chemical exchange—such as the transfer of signaling molecules and metabolites—without the requirement for direct physical contact. This allows researchers to capture dynamic root-microbe communication, providing fundamental insights into how these relationships influence plant growth, health, and adaptation under various biotic and abiotic stress conditions.
Technical specifications
- Membrane-based co-cultivation setup that physically separates plants from microbial communities while facilitating diffusible chemical exchange.
- Supports moderately complex microbial communities, including approximately 146 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs).
- Capable of exometabolomic analysis of both plant root and microbial exudates to identify signaling metabolites and small peptides.
- Functionality as a high-throughput screening tool for assessing plant phenotypic traits and microbial functionality.
- Provides a controlled in vitro environment to study chemical dialogues that are otherwise difficult to monitor in soil-based systems.
Technology readiness level
The technology is at level 3, representing a validated proof-of-concept. It has been successfully demonstrated in a research setting through published studies—specifically in the journal Plant Methods in 2026—to support plant growth assays and metabolomic profiling of root-microbe interactions. While established as a functional research tool for laboratory-based scientific investigation, it is not yet reported as a commercialized product. Researchers have indicated that findings generated by the system are intended to be validated through subsequent greenhouse and field trials to...
About National University of Singapore
The National University of Singapore is a comprehensive public research university and the country’s flagship, known for a global, collaborative culture. Industry partners access co‑located corporate labs, shared core facilities, and an integrated academic health system that supports clinical translation at scale. Campuses border the one‑north and Singapore Science Park innovation districts, linking companies to deep‑tech startups, government research institutes, and multinational R&D hubs. Research is powered by competitive national funding from the National Research Foundation Singapore, A*STAR, and the Ministry of Education, alongside international consortia and industry‑sponsored programs. A dedicated technology transfer office and enterprise programs handle IP, licensing, and venture creation, offering streamlined engagement models, pilots, and access to talent.
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