The bacterial world inside the plant

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture requires the recruitment of bacterial agents to reduce the demand for mineral fertilizers and pesticides such as bacterial endophytes. Bacterial endophytes represent a potential alternative to the widespread use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides in conventional agriculture practices. Endophytes are formed by complex microbial communities and microorganisms that colonize the plant interior for at least part of their life. Their functions range from mutualism to pathogenicity. Bacterial endophytes colonize plant tissues, and their composition and diversity depend on many factors, including the plant organ, physiological conditions, plant growth stage, and environmental conditions. The presence of endophytes influences several vital activities of the host plant. They can promote plant growth, elicit a defense response against pathogen attack, and lessen abiotic stress. Despite their potential, especially with regard to crop production and environmental sustainability, research remains sparse. This review provides an overview of the current research, including the concept of endophytes, endophytes in plant organs, endophyte colonization, nutrient efficiency use, endophytes and crop nutrition, inoculation with synergistic bacteria, the effect of inoculum concentration on plant root microbiota and synthetic communities. It also examines the practical opportunities and challenges when utilizing endophytes in the field of sustainable agriculture. Finally, it explores the importance of these associations with regard to the future of agriculture and the environment.

Modern Trends in Natural Antibiotic Discovery

“…It is possible that this method of cultivation will contribute to the dis- Endophytic microorganisms, especially actinomycetes [47,48] and fungi [49], possess a great variety of biologically active metabolites. Endophytic bacteria are used not only in medicine and veterinary medicine, but also as biofertilizers and biocontrol agents in agriculture [50,51].…”

Implications of Domestication in Theobroma Cacao L. Seed-borne Microbial Endophytes Diversity

“…In addition, seed-borne microbial endophytes are particularly interesting as they enhance seed germination and plant growth promotion, so they are important in improving crop productivity and resilience [18] [19] [20]. Thus, they can be used as bioproducts in phytoremediation and sustainable agriculture [21].…”

Replacement of water yam (Dioscorea alata L.) indigenous root endophytes and rhizosphere bacterial communities via inoculation with a synthetic bacterial community of dominant nitrogen-fixing bacteria

“…The colonization of introduced bacteria can be influenced by competition with other native endophytes for limited nutrients and niches. The competition can occur through root colonization (e.g., biofilm formation), production of antibiotic compounds that directly affect other microbe growth, or depletion of resources essential for other microbes ( Berg et al, 2020 ; Santos et al, 2022 ). However, owing to the limitations of current investigative techniques and high analytical costs, studies into plant microbiota and the interaction between bacterial inoculates, the plant host, and microbial communities remain limited ( Trabelsi and Mhamdi, 2013 ).…”