How plants recruit their microbiome? New insights into beneficial interactions

Summary

BACKGROUND: Research on beneficial mechanisms by plant-associated microbiomes, such as plant growth stimulation and protection from plant pathogens, has gained considerable attention over the past decades; however, the mechanisms used by plants to recruit their microbiome is largely unknown. AIM OF REVIEW: Here, we review the latest studies that have begun to reveal plant strategies in selectively recruiting beneficial microbiomes, and how they manage to exclude potential pathogens. Key Scientific concepts of Review: We examine how plants attract beneficial microbiota from the main areas of interaction, such as the rhizosphere, endosphere, and phyllosphere, and demonstrate that such process occurs by producing root exudates, and recognizing molecules produced by the beneficial microbiota o