Maize seed endophytes

Maize is a vital global crop, and each seed (kernel) hosts an ecosystem of microbes living inside it. However, we know very little about these endophytes and what their role is in plant production and physiology. In this Microreview, I summarize the major questions around maize seed endophytes, including what organisms are present, how they get there, whether and how they transmit across generations, and how they and the plant affect each other. Although several studies touch on each of these areas, ultimately there are far more questions than answers. Future priorities for research on maize seed endophytes should include understanding what adaptations allow microbes to be seed endophytes, how the host genetics and the environment affect these communities, and how maize seed endophytes ultimately contribute to the next generation of plants.

Automated summary

This Microreview discusses the major questions surrounding maize seed endophytes, including their composition, formation, transmission, and interaction with the plant. Current knowledge about these endophytes is limited, and future research should focus on understanding the adaptations that allow microbes to be seed endophytes, the influence of host genetics and the environment on these communities, and the contribution of seed endophytes to the next generation of maize plants.