Deciphering the Soil and Plant Microbiome: Understanding the Influence of Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria on Soil Microbiomes, Plant Microbiomes and Plant Health

The interactions between Plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB), green plants, roots and the soil microbiome play a fundamental role in plant health and productivity. PGPB influence microbial community dynamics, plant microbiome, nutrient cycling, and plant resilience against environmental stresses. Recent studies have revealed the significance of PGPB activity in shaping rhizospheric soil and plant microbiomes, highlighting their roles in ecosystem stability and plant growth.This Research Topic aims to deepen our understanding of the PGPB, its interactions with soil and plant microbial communities, and its broader implications for plant health, ecological stability, and sustainable agriculture. While much is known about bacterial and fungal dynamics, the role of soil viruses and archaea remains underexplored. Our objective is to investigate their functions, transmission, and impact on plant-associated microbial networks.To advance this field, we invite research contributions that explore PGPB diversity in soil ecosystems, their interactions with rhizospheric soil and plant microbiomes, and their influence on plant health and crop productivity. We seek studies that focus on PGPB-driven microbial shifts, viral-host interactions in soil, and the functional roles of PGPB in shaping plant-associated microbial ecology.Rhizosphere is the narrow region of soil directly surrounding plant roots. It is a hotspot for microbial activity, as plant roots release a variety of compounds that attract and support the growth of microorganisms. This includes archaea, bacteria, fungi, viruses, which can have a significant impact on plant health. While the term "PGPB" might not be commonly used, but the concept that it refers to is relevant. PGPB can interact with the rhizospheric microbiome, the region of soil surrounding plant roots, in ways that influence plant growth. Here's how PGPB can play a role in plant growth promotion within the rhizosphere:• PGPB interacts with the soil virome (the community of viruses in soil) in complex ways that influence plant health, often with PGPB reducing the impact of viruses. PGPB can directly and indirectly promote plant growth through mechanisms like nutrient acquisition and hormone production.This interaction can result in PGPB either exacerbating or mitigating symptoms, depending on the specific plant-virus-archaea-bacteria-fungi combination and the abundance of each organism. • Some PGPB can kill harmful bacteria/archaea/fungi(molds and yeast)/virus (bacteriophages/Mycoviruses/Mycorhizoviruses/Mycorhizophages) in the rhizosphere, reducing the risk of plant diseases and promoting healthier root systems.• Plant viruses or Bacteriophages/Archaeophage/Bacteriorhizophages/Archaeorhizophages: While generally known for causing diseases, some plant viruses can have a subtle positive effect on plant growth under certain conditions. This is an area of ongoing research.It is important to note that the interactions between microbiome specially viruses/bacteria/archaea/fungi and plants in the rhizosphere are complex and not fully understood. More research is needed to fully explore the potential of microbiome especially PGPB for promoting plant growth. Therefore, in this current topic we aim to gather information on the available knowledge and future directions on this research realm.To advance knowledge in this area, we welcome contributions, including—but not limited to—the following themes:o Biochemical pathways facilitating nutrient exchange between rhizosphere microorganisms, rhizophage, soilphage and plantso Composition and function of root-associated and bulk soil associated archaeal/bacterial/fungal including molds and yeast/viral communities in interactions with plantso Innovative methodologies bridging microbiology, virology, botany and environmental scienceso Strategies for harnessing microbial functions to enhance crop resilience and productivityBy concentrating on these areas through original research, methodological advancements, and comprehensive reviews, we aim to compile a body of work that fosters innovation in the utilization of microbial processes for sustainable agricultural practices. Topic editors: Abhinav Aeron, Tofazzal Islam, Shruti Shukla, Rinu Kooliyottil Nair Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83239/deciphering-the-soil-and-plant-microbiome-understanding-the-influence-of-plant-growth-promoting-bacteria-on-soil-microbiomes-plant-microbiomes-and-plant-health