The Molecular Basis of Plant–Microbe Interactions

Dear Colleagues,

Plants have evolved alongside a variety of microorganisms, including pathogens and beneficial microbes that support plant growth or stress tolerance. Given global climate change and its threats to food security, these beneficial microbes are vital resources for future agricultural strategies. Beneficial microorganisms interact with plant aerial organs (phyllosphere) and root systems (rhizosphere) as epiphytes or endophytes. They promote plant growth by mobilizing, transporting, and solubilizing nutrients, regulating plant physiology, and maintaining metabolism. Increasing evidence suggests comprehensive chemical communication between microbes and plants, with both producing metabolites and enzymes that influence plant immune and defense responses by regulating hormone levels and reprogramming biochemical and transcriptional pathways.

Over the past two decades, significant advancements have been made in elucidating the importance of beneficial microbes for sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation. Soil microbiome engineering, utilizing individual microbial cultures or synthetic communities (SynComs), demonstrates potential for enhancing plant productivity under adverse conditions. However, further research is necessary for the broader applicability of this approach in agriculture.

The primary objective of this Special Issue is to provide a comprehensive overview of plant–microbe interactions and their molecular mechanisms, with a focus on the promotion of plant growth, biomass, photosynthesis, fruit development, fruit quality improvements, and the associated physiological processes, signaling pathways, and growth regulatory pathways involved. We cordially invite submissions, including original research articles and review papers, focused on this topic of significant importance to enhance human well-being.

Dr. Stephan Pollmann
Dr. Luis Morales-Quintana
Dr. Patricio Ramos
Guest Editors

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