Endophytes: A Biocontrol Agent for Management of Plant Diseases

Author: K. Sowmya, R. Sandhiya and M.S. Bhagavathi

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Abstract

Beneficial microbial endophytes that live inside the host plant and have the capacity to colonize plant roots without endangering the plant system. A wide variety of microbial associations, such as positive, negative, or neutral reactions to their host plant, attach plants together. Most of the study focuses on well-known epiphytic beneficial microbial associations with root zones, based on trends. However, one important aspect of plant microbiomes is that endophytic microbes that promote plant growth are found in the rhizospheric microbiome. Endophytic microorganisms communally inhabit and augment within the parts of the plants that include tissues of root, stem, leaf, bud, fruit and seed without causing any damage to the host plant. It is necessary to research microbial endophytes, a potent microbial resource, for use in sustainable agriculture. Association with a variety of bacterial, fungal, or actinomycete endophytes in addition to plant hosts, which may balance soil and plant health. Diversified plant growth regulating and promoting characteristics are directed by the association with endophytes and in this regard to microhabitat and the host metabolic activity; they synthesize several bioactive metabolic compounds emanating growth promoting and regulating parameters that similar to root zones microbes. They regulate substantial symbiosis by delivering several bioactive metabolic compounds providing to plant growth and microbial association. The characteristic features correlated with endophytes such as extracellular enzyme production, secondary metabolic synthesis against phytopathogens, bioremediation and induced systemic resistance

Keywords

Microbial endophytes, Phytopathogens, Rhizhosphere associations, Plant growth promotion

Conclusion

Recently, endophytic microorganisms have become increasingly recognized due to their ability to effectively colonize and adapt. Besides their role in managing phytopathogens, endophytes also promote growth through mechanisms such as modulating phytohormones, solubilizing phosphates, and producing siderophores. Moreover, they have the added advantage of infiltrating plant tissues, establishing a presence within the host, and successfully passing to the subsequent generation of plants through seeds, unlike rhizospheric microbiota. Identifying compatible microbes capable of colonizing within host tissues and being transferred to future plant generations via seeds could offer a novel strategy to maximize the benefits of endophytes in controlling plant diseases. In addition, it is essential to thoroughly examine the interactions between selected endophytes and plant microbiota to gain a comprehensive understanding of both the positive and negative implications of utilizing endophytes within plant microbiomes. The criteria used for screening play a crucial role in identifying potential endophytes. Endophytes like Trichoderma sp., Bacillus sp., and Pseudomonas sp. are frequently identified through standardized isolation methods. Nonetheless, it is essential to adjust the screening parameters to extract endophytes capable of withstanding biotic and abiotic stress conditions and subsequently assess them in various environmental settings. Additionally, recent advancements in NGS technology and omics methodologies can aid in the discovery and screening of non-culturable endophytes, as well as in exploring plant-pathogen-endophyte interactions at a molecular level. Furthermore, creating a global, country-specific database of isolated endophytes and their metabolites could provide a strategic framework for further screening, identification, and utilization of endophytes in managing plant diseases. Fungi and bacteria are the most examined endophytes in managing plant diseases; however, recent research has highlighted the significant contribution of endophytic actinomycetes and yeasts in this area. Additional research on non-traditional microbial types as endophytes is needed to identify more effective candidates that can help plants withstand biotic stress. Although endophytes offer several advantages in managing plant diseases, their application in field settings remains restricted. Greater attention should be directed towards identifying stress-resistant endophytes and facilitating their application from laboratory research to agricultural practice. Additionally, efforts must be made to inform end users about this technology to promote effective and eco-friendly plant disease management

References

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How to cite this article

K. Sowmya, R. Sandhiya and M.S. Bhagavathi (2025). Endophytes: A Biocontrol Agent for Management of Plant Diseases. Biological Forum, 17(3): 25-31