Plant Growth Regulators and Microbiome Interplay in Crop Growth and Development

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, the role of the plant microbiome has emerged as a central topic within the field of plant physiology. Ubiquitous in nature, microorganisms can colonize a variety of ecological niches within (endosphere, phyllosphere) or close (rhizosphere) to plants, establishing complex chemical dialogues with the host tissues that can drive different types of relationships. However, how these interactions influence plant growth and development is still poorly understood. One of the main strategies used by microorganisms to influence crop behavior is based on their ability to synthesize plant growth regulators (PGRs) or closely related compounds, that once released in the tissues modulate the behavior of the host plant. These actions modify gene expression, secondary metabolite production and overall crop performance, thus directly impacting crop yield. On the other hand, plants’ own PGRs also have a relevant effect on the assembly and performance of the microbiome, establishing a chemical arms race that ultimately impacts plant fitness. All in all, the modulation of hormone homeostasis influences plant growth, development, fruit production or defense responses, among other processes. Therefore, a deeper understanding of these relations might enable the development of new strategies for a more sustainable agriculture.

The aim of this Special Issue is to provide authors with a platform to share their work analyzing the interactions of members of the microbiome (mainly bacteria and fungi) with the growth and development of crops and its interplay with PGRs. Manuscripts dealing with the characterization of microbiome populations, their effect on plant gene expression, the influence of PGRs on their interplay, or any other analysis that can help improve the understanding of their interactions are welcomed. Moreover, controlled studies dealing with the effect of inoculating particular sets of microbes or specific hormone treatments may be necessary to further clarify these relationships. Gene editing studies or systems biology approaches might also be of interest.

Dr. Jesus M. Vielba
Guest Editor

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• bacteria
• fungi
• development
• plant growth regulators
• crop yield
• plant fitness
• microbiome