Green guardians: The biocontrol potential of Pseudomonas-derived metabolites for sustainable agriculture

Abstract

Pseudomonas is a diverse genus found in various ecological environments, ranging from soil and water to plant surfaces and animal tissues. These bacteria are notable for producing a wide array of bioactive antimicrobial metabolites (AMs), which give them a competitive advantage by inhibiting rival microorganisms and serve as a primary mechanism for the biocontrol of plant diseases, thus supporting sustainable agriculture. This review comprehensively covers recent advancements in the study of Pseudomonas-derived AMs. It discusses the chemical diversity of these metabolites, their broad-spectrum bioactivities against pathogenic bacteria and fungi, oomycetes, nematodes, and their modes of action. The genetic and enzymatic processes involved in AMs production, and the regulatory mechanisms that control these pathways in response to environmental signals. Practical applications of Pseudomonas AMs are also explored, particularly in plant disease management, where they function as biopesticides, reducing dependency on chemical pesticides and promoting sustainable farming practices. This review aims to encourage further exploration into AMs, inspiring new explorations into their production and applications. By highlighting recent progress and emerging trends, it seeks to promote the use of AMs in plant disease management and inspire the development of new green agrochemicals, contributing to more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.