BE_2024v14n2

Bioscience Evidence 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 44-55 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/be 45 In summary, the integration of SynComs into agricultural practices represents a promising strategy to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on crop production. This study will explore the current state of SynCom research, evaluate their performance in field trials, and discuss their potential to revolutionize climate-resilient agriculture. 2 Overview for Engineered SynComs 2.1 Definition and characteristics of engineered SynComs Engineered Synthetic Microbial Communities (SynComs) are carefully designed consortia of microorganisms that are tailored to perform specific functions beneficial to plant health and productivity. These communities are not naturally occurring but are constructed using principles from microbial ecology and genetics to enhance plant resilience and growth under various environmental conditions (Souza et al., 2020; Shayanthan et al., 2022). SynComs are characterized by their ability to form stable, functional associations with plant hosts, often leading to improved plant performance through mechanisms such as enhanced nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and disease resistance (Souza et al., 2020; Pradhan et al., 2022). 2.2 Methods for engineering SynComs The engineering of SynComs involves several advanced methodologies, including synthetic biology and genetic modification. Synthetic biology allows for the precise assembly of microbial consortia by selecting and combining microbial species with desired traits (Souza et al., 2020; Martins et al., 2023). Genetic modification techniques can be used to enhance specific functions of these microbes, such as nutrient solubilization or stress resistance (Shayanthan et al., 2022). Additionally, computational methods, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, are increasingly employed to screen and identify beneficial microbes and to determine the optimal combinations of microbes for achieving desired plant phenotypes (Souza et al., 2020; Martins et al., 2023). These approaches ensure that the engineered SynComs are robust, stable, and capable of performing their intended functions under field conditions. 2.3 Advantages of using engineered SynComs over traditional agricultural methods Engineered SynComs offer several advantages over traditional agricultural methods. Firstly, they provide a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, reducing the environmental impact of agriculture (Pradhan et al., 2022; Shayanthan et al., 2022). SynComs can enhance plant resilience to abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity, thereby improving crop productivity under adverse conditions (Armanhi et al., 2021; Shayanthan et al., 2022). They also promote plant health by enhancing nutrient uptake and suppressing soil-borne pathogens through competitive exclusion and the production of antimicrobial compounds (Pradhan et al., 2022; Martins et al., 2023). Furthermore, the use of SynComs can lead to more consistent and reliable outcomes compared to traditional single-strain inoculants, as the synergistic interactions within the microbial community contribute to greater stability and functionality (Shayanthan et al., 2022; Martins et al., 2023). Overall, the integration of engineered SynComs into agricultural practices holds great promise for achieving climate-resilient and sustainable crop production. 3 Climate-Resilient Agriculture 3.1 Definition and importance of climate-resilient agriculture Climate-resilient agriculture refers to farming practices that are designed to withstand the adverse effects of climate change while maintaining or improving productivity. This approach is crucial for ensuring food security in the face of increasing environmental stressors such as drought, extreme temperatures, and soil degradation. The importance of climate-resilient agriculture lies in its potential to sustain agricultural productivity and livelihoods, reduce vulnerability to climate variability, and enhance the adaptive capacity of farming systems (Pradhan et al., 2022; Shayanthan et al., 2022). 3.2 Challenges faced by traditional agriculture under climate change Traditional agricultural practices are increasingly challenged by the impacts of climate change. These challenges

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