The hidden language of plant-beneficial microbes: chemo-signaling dynamics in plant microenvironments

Plants and microorganisms coexist within complex ecosystems, significantly influencing agricultural productivity. Depending on the interaction between the plant and microbes, this interaction can either help or harm plant health. Microbes interact with plants by secreting proteins that influence plant cells, producing bioactive compounds like antibiotics or toxins, and releasing molecules such as N-acyl homoserine lactones to coordinate their behaviour. They also produce phytohormones which help regulate growth and stress responses in plants. Plants also interact with the associated microorganisms by exuding substances such as carbon and nitrogen sources, quorum-sensing molecules, peptide signals, secondary metabolites such as flavonoids and strigolactones. A successful exchange of chemical signals is essential for maintaining these associations, with significant implications for plant growth and development. This review explores the intricate array of signaling molecules and complex mechanisms governing plant-microbe interactions, elucidating the pivotal role of chemo-communication pathways. By examining these molecular dialogues, the review aims to deepen our understanding of chemo-signaling molecules, paving the way for future applications of these networks in promoting agricultural sustainability.