Abstract: The invention relates to isolated DMI11 genes from Medicago truncatula which play a major role both in the early steps of Nod factor signaling that trigger several key developmental responses in the host plant and in the establishment of mycorrhizal symbiosis. The invention also relates to transgenic plants and plant cells expressing the DMI1 protein for increased root nodulation, and methods for transforming plants with a M. truncatula DMI1 gene.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composition for improving the efficiency of ruminant feed utilization, which comprises as active ingredient one or more microbial cultures, capable of adjusting the weight ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid to an optimum value, preferably to 1.5-4.0:1, and of growing in the rumen and persisting there at least for 60 days, optionally in admixture with carriers, diluent, preserving agents conventionally used in animal husbandry and nutritive and/or other substances conventionally administered to ruminants.According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a process for the preparation of microbial cultures used as active ingredient in the above composition.The invention further relates to a process for the preparation and use of said compositions.