Endophytic bacteria: a possible path towards a sustainable agriculture

Abstract

Endophytic bacteria are a promising tool in the development of a sustainable agriculture. Their biological mechanisms of atmospheric nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, production of phytohormones and inhibition of plant pathogens and pests promote plant growth avoiding the need for chemical fertilizers and control agents. A patent search was carried out in the Derwent Innovations Index database to assess the panorama of technological development related to the use of endophytic bacteria in three important agricultural crops, i.e., corn, soybean, and sugarcane. The rank of patent publications by country was leaded by China, USA, Canada, and Brazil, and among these countries, China, USA, and Brazil lead the worldwide production of grains. Several new bacterial strains were protected as bioinoculants or biopesticides. Formulations containing endophytic bacteria were mostly intended for seed coating or spraying and acted directly in the control of pests and diseases, as well as in increasing resistance to environmental stress. In many cases, they acted in promoting the growth of plants producing hormones that regulate or increase nutrient uptake.