Advances in research methods for plant endophytes

Abstract:

Plant endophytes as indispensable components of plant microcosms are the major part of the plant microbial community. They inhabit plant tissues or tissue gaps, and most of them promote plant growth via different pathways. The plant endophyte community is characterized by diverse species and a complex structure. Beneficial endophytes can promote plant growth, enhance plant resistance, and produce valuable secondary metabolites. By reviewing the articles about the research methods for endophyte resources, we explored the relationship between plant endophytes and host plants, the diversity of endophytes, the research methods for isolation and colonization, and the roles and functioning mechanisms of endophytes in host plants. Furthermore, we make an outlook on the trend of new technologies in the research on plant endophytes, aiming to provide a theoretical reference for the application of plant endophytes.