Challenges for Plant Growth Promoting Microorganism Transfer from Science to Industry: A Case Study from Chile

Abstract

Research on the plant growth promoting microorganisms (PGPM) is increasing strongly due to the biotechnological potential for the agricultural, forestry, and food industry. The benefits of using PGPM in crop production are well proven; however, their incorporation in agricultural management is still limited. Therefore, we wanted to explore the gaps and challenges for the transfer of biotechnological innovations based on PGPM to the agricultural sector. Our systematic review of the state of the art of PGPM research and knowledge transfer takes Chile as an example. Several transfer limiting aspects are identified and discussed. Our two main conclusions are: neither academia nor industry can meet unfounded expectations during technology transfer, but mutually clarifying their needs, capabilities, and limitations is the starting point for successful collaborations; the generation of a collaborative innovation environment, where academia as well as public and private stakeholders (including the local community) take part, is crucial to enhance the acceptance and integration of PGPM on the way to sustainable agriculture.

Microbial Consortia for Plant Protection against Diseases: More than the Sum of Its Parts

“…However, the legal status of these consortia, similar to biocontrol products, is in urgent need of revision [24][25][26]167]. Nevertheless, the relatively low number of biocontrol formulations can also be attributed to inadequate knowledge exchange between industry and academia [168,169]. Therefore, it is imperative to improve communication among scientists, plant protection product producers, farmers, and regulatory authorities.…”

Enhancing Melon Growth and Nutrient Uptake with Plant-Growth-Promoting Microorganisms from Cucumis melo

“…Within this intricate ecosystem, microorganisms serve as crucial agents, augmenting nutrient accessibility, endowing resistance to pathogens, and regulating plant growth [11]. Notably, certain bacterial and fungal taxa, collectively termed plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM), have garnered recognition for their contributions to enhancing agricultural productivity and fortifying crop resilience [15,16]. These microorganisms can modulate nutritional dynamics, mitigate stress, and synthesize growth hormones such as indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) [17,18].…”