Root Endophytic Fungi: Research Update

Abstract

Fungal endophytes are group of microorganisms that reside asymptomatically within the healthy living tissue. Root endophytic fungi like dark septate endophytes (DSE), Piriformospora indica, and Trichoderma show mutualistic association with many plant species. The endophytes are known to produce a diverse group of secondary metabolites, extracellular enzymes, antibiotics, antifungal, anticancer agents that can be used as therapeutic drugs, agrochemicals or in industries. Plants associated with fungal endophytes play an important role in the survival of plants in extreme stressed condition. This review focuses on the functions of fungal root endophytes, their relationship with host plant, tolerance to abiotic stress and secondary metabolites production against various pathogens.