Microbial antibiotics take the lead in the fight against plant pathogens

The plant microbiome is essential for plant fitness and health. Antibiotics produced by plant-associated bacteria have been shown to play an important role in protecting plant hosts against phytopathogens. Here, we highlight the strong biotechnological potential of (i) antibiotic producing plant-associated bacteria as biocontrol agents and (ii) the heterologous expression of antibiotic biosynthetic gene clusters in non-pathogenic plant-associated bacteria. We also provide the complete list of the active substances based on bacteria, fungi, and viruses currently approved or pending approval in the European Union, as an indication of the significant emergence and biotechnological applicability of biopesticides. Further progress in this field of research will enable the development of novel biopesticides for the biocontrol of agricultural pests.

Automated summary

The plant microbiome plays a crucial role in plant fitness and health, as antibiotics produced by plant-associated bacteria protect plants against phytopathogens. This article highlights the biotechnological potential of antibiotic-producing plant-associated bacteria as biocontrol agents and the heterologous expression of antibiotic biosynthetic gene clusters in non-pathogenic plant-associated bacteria. It also provides a list of approved or pending approval active substances in the European Union, indicating the significant emergence and biotechnological applicability of biopesticides. Progress in this research field will contribute to the development of novel biopesticides for agricultural pest control.