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Biotechnological overview of agriculturally important endophytic fungi

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Abstract

The many fascinating aspects of biotechnology in endophytic studies not only concern their interactions with plants but their potential as key players driving the synthesis of certain biomolecules that enhance plant growth, immunity, and protection against environmental stresses. A high microbial population inhabits the rhizosphere due to rhizodeposition and root exudate secretions. The rhizoplane forms a barrier that selectively screens the types of microorganisms infiltrating the root tissues with well-developed hyphae for successful colonization and establishment of endophytic communities within the plant tissues. Fungal endophytes contribute to the physiological and metabolic functions in the host plants, such as nutrient acquisition, nitrogen fixation, and control of plant pathogens. They also contribute to plant growth via complex mechanisms: mutualism or antagonism. The molecular methods of studying these endophytes have provided salient information for harnessing their potential for possible applications in improving agricultural productivity. Despite this, only a small fraction of endophytes have been isolated and explored. Hence, the metagenomic approach has revealed more insights into the endophytic structural diversity and functions for the detection of novel traits that can easily be genetically manipulated for various agricultural and industrial applications. Furthermore, biotechnological applications of biofertilizer from endophytic fungi help ensure a safe environment and aid in the development of agriculturally friendly processes for improved crop yields and productivity.

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Acknowledgements

Bartholomew Saanu Adeleke thanked the National Research Foundation of South Africa/The World Academy of Sciences (NRF-TWAS) African Renaissance Ph.D. scholarship (Ref: UID: 116100) for giving him a stipend. Olubukola Oluranti Babalola acknowledges NRF for the Grant (UID: 123634) that supports research in her laboratory.

Funding

This study was funded by the National Research Foundation of South Africa (UID: 123634) to O.O.B.

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  1. Food Security and Safety Niche Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2735, South Africa

    Bartholomew Saanu Adeleke & Olubukola Oluranti Babalola

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Correspondence to Olubukola Oluranti Babalola.

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Adeleke, B.S., Babalola, O.O. Biotechnological overview of agriculturally important endophytic fungi. Hortic. Environ. Biotechnol. 62, 507–520 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13580-021-00334-1

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