Enhanced plant defense mechanisms mediated by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (IMAGE) Tokyo University of Science Caption Plants attacked or infested with pests release VOCs to signal nearby healthy plants. This triggers the neighboring plants to increase and improve their defense mechanisms against pests and pathogens. Credit Gen-ichiro Arimura from TUS, Japan Usage Restrictions Cannot be use without permission. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.