Burragoni SG, Jeon J. Applications of endophytic microbes in agriculture, biotechnology, medicine, and beyond.
Microbiol Res 2021;
245:126691. [PMID:
33508761 DOI:
10.1016/j.micres.2020.126691]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Endophytes are emerging as integral components of plant microbiomes. Some of them play pivotal roles in plant development and plant responses to pathogens and abiotic stresses, whereas others produce useful and/or interesting secondary metabolites. The appreciation of their abilities to affect plant phenotypes and produce useful compounds via genetic and molecular interactions has paved the way for these abilities to be exploited for health and welfare of plants, humans and ecosystems. Here we comprehensively review current and potential applications of endophytes in the agricultural, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. In addition, we briefly discuss the research objectives that should be focused upon in the coming years in order for endophytes and their metabolites to be fully harnessed for potential use in diverse areas.
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