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Engineering Plant-Associated Microorganisms for Bioremediation and Sustainable Agriculture
Aurora I Flores1, Luzmaría R Morales-Cedeño1, Pedro D Loeza-Lara2
1Genomic Diversity Laboratory, Institute of Biological and Chemical Research, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, Morelia 58030, Mexico.
Microorganisms
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Genomic engineering of plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) enhances crop performance and environmental remediation. These advanced techniques optimize functions like nutrient uptake and disease resistance, ensuring sustainable agriculture.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Increasing food demand necessitates sustainable agricultural practices.
- Plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) enhance crop fitness through direct and indirect mechanisms.
- Genomic modification offers a pathway to improve PGPM capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advances in genomic engineering of plant-beneficial microorganisms.
- To explore how these engineered microbes can improve crop performance and environmental remediation.
- To discuss the regulation and safety of genetically modified PGPM.
Main Methods:
- Review of genetic modification strategies including random mutagenesis, CRISPR-Cas genome editing, gene over-expression, genome shuffling, RNA interference, metabolic pathway engineering, and synthetic biology.
- Analysis of optimized microbial functions: nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, secondary metabolite production, biocontrol, stress tolerance, and bioremediation.
Main Results:
- Genomic engineering tools effectively optimize PGPM functions for agricultural and environmental benefits.
- These modifications enhance nutrient availability, phytohormone production, and pathogen protection.
- Engineered PGPM show potential for improved crop yields and environmental cleanup.
Conclusions:
- Genomic engineering significantly advances the application of PGPM in sustainable agriculture.
- Further discussion on the regulation and safe implementation of these technologies is crucial.
- Ensuring the safety of engineered PGPM for the environment and non-target organisms is paramount.
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