Molecular Microbiology Research 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 226-235 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/mmr 226 Research Perspective Open Access Conservation and Diversity of Seed-Associated Endophytes inZea Jiamin Wang, Yunchao Huang Hainan Key Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China Corresponding author: yunchao.huang@hitar.org Molecular Microbiology Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.5 doi: 10.5376/mmr.2024.14.0025 Received: 10 Aug., 2024 Accepted: 22 Sep., 2024 Published: 09 Oct., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Wang and Huang, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Wang J.M., and Huang Y.C., 2024, Conservation and diversity of seed-associated endophytes in Zea, Molecular Microbiology Research, 14(5): 226-235 (doi: 10.5376/mmr.2024.14.0025) Abstract Zea is one of the most important crops worldwide, widely cultivated across various regions, playing a critical role in providing food for humans and animals, as well as in biofuel production. In recent years, endophytes, particularly seed-associated endophytes, have been recognized for their potential applications in improving crop health and yields. As symbiotic microorganisms within plants, endophytes can enhance plant growth, increase disease resistance, and improve nutrient uptake through various mechanisms. This study further explores the mechanisms by which endophytes protect crops from pathogens, including the production of antimicrobial compounds, induction of systemic resistance, and competitive exclusion of pathogens. Additionally, strategies for endophyte conservation, such as in situ and ex situ methods, and their application in seed banks, are discussed. Based on existing research, the potential of endophytes to enhance crop resilience and improve breeding programs is validated. This study highlights the importance of conserving endophyte diversity and offers recommendations for future research directions. Keywords Zea; Endophytes; Crop resilience; Conservation of diversity; Breeding improvement 1 Introduction Zea, commonly known as maize or corn, is one of the most significant staple crops globally, playing a crucial role in food security, livestock feed, and biofuel production. Maize is characterized by its erect green stalk and kernels, which are essential for plant growth and reproduction. The crop's adaptability and nutritional value have made it integral to global agriculture and human diets, particularly in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, where it serves as a primary food source (Nuss and Tanumihardjo, 2010; Johnston-Monje et al., 2014). The genetic diversity within Zea, including its wild ancestors like teosinte, has been pivotal in breeding programs aimed at improving yield, nutritional quality, and environmental resilience (Ortiz et al., 2010; Wallace, 2022). Endophytes are non-pathogenic microbes that reside within plant tissues, including seeds, without causing disease. These microorganisms can significantly influence plant health, growth, and stress tolerance. In maize, seed-associated endophytes have been shown to enhance nutrient uptake, promote growth, and protect against pathogens (Chowdhury et al., 2019; Yang et al., 2020). Studies have identified a core microbiota of endophytes conserved across different Zea genotypes, suggesting their crucial role in the plant's evolutionary success and agricultural performance (Liu et al., 2016; Shehata et al., 2017). The presence of beneficial endophytes, such as those capable of nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and pathogen antagonism, underscores their potential in sustainable agriculture and crop improvement strategies (Wallace, 2022). This study will explore the composition and functional roles of endophytes in different maize genotypes, from wild ancestors to modern maize varieties; Examine the effects of acclimation, migration and environmental factors on endophyte communities; Evaluate the potential application of endophytes in enhancing the health, growth, and resilience of maize.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==