Han L.Z., 2024, Harnessing the power of PGPR: unraveling the molecular interactions between beneficial bacteria and crop roots, Molecular Soil Biology, 15(1): 8-16 (doi: 10.5376/msb.2024.15.0002)

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) have emerged as a promising eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, offering significant benefits for sustainable agriculture. This systematic review delves into the intricate molecular interactions between PGPR and crop roots, highlighting their potential to enhance plant growth and health. PGPR, such as fluorescent Pseudomonas spp., Bacillus cereus, and multispecies inoculants, have been shown to improve crop yields by various mechanisms, including nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, siderophore production, and the synthesis of phytohormones These bacteria also play a crucial role in disease suppression by competing with pathogens for nutrients, producing antimicrobial compounds, and inducing systemic resistance in plants. The review further explores the role of root exudates and bacterial secretions in modulating these interactions, emphasizing the importance of specific genes and metabolites in the process. Recent advancements in metatranscriptomics and gene expression profiling have provided deeper insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these beneficial interactions, paving the way for more effective application of PGPR in agriculture. By understanding these complex interactions, we can develop innovative strategies to harness the full potential of PGPR, ultimately contributing to sustainable crop production and environmental conservation.