In the pursuit of novel biocontrol agents, Pseudomonas spp. have garnered considerable attention for their potential to inhibit some of the most damaging cereal crop pathogens. Efforts to isolate Pseudomonas strains from diverse environments have revealed promising candidates capable of combating phytopathogens (Chaudhary et al., 2021; Lv et al., 2023). Several studies have identified Pseudomonas species with the ability to inhibit numerous cereal crop pathogens, including Magnaporthe oryzae (causing rice blast), Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici (a fungus responsible for wheat take-all disease), Fusarium spp. (associated with head blight, root rot, wilt, and grain contamination), Pyrenophora tritici-repentis (a fungal pathogen that is the cause of tan spot disease), and Rhizoctania solani (a wide-host-range soil-borne pathogen) (Garbeva et al., 2004; Karthikeyan and Gnanamanickam, 2008; Lemanceau and Alabouvette, 1993; Rangarajan et al., 2003; Thomashow and Weller, 1988) (Table 1). These findings mark the initial steps in the quest to identify effective biocontrol agents, demonstrating the ability of isolates to confer plant protection in vivo, through greenhouse experiments and field trials.

Several greenhouse and growth chamber studies have explored the use of bioactive compounds purified from cultures of Pseudomonas species (Table 1) (Ligon et al., 2000; Wu et al., 2018). For instance, metabolites from Pseudomonas mosselii BS011 exhibited broad-spectrum inhibition against phytopathogenic fungi including M. oryzae (Wu et al., 2018). Importantly, Pseudomonas strains have demonstrated equal inhibition of pathogens compared to standard chemical fungicides (Ligon et al., 2000). For example, culture filtrates of P. fluorescens strain BL915 exhibited equal efficacy against R. solani compared to quintozene, a conventional chemical fungicide (Ligon et al., 2000).

Pseudomonas spp. Metabolites multiple compounds which contribute to their antagonistic properties. For example, the antagonistic properties of P. protegens FD6 were examined against pathogenic fungi such as Botrytis cinerea and Monilinia fructicola (Zhang et al., 2020). Genomic analysis identified 12 gene clusters responsible for the production of key secondary metabolites, including 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (2,4-DAPG), pyoluteorin (PLT), and pyrrolnitrin (PRN), all essential for its antifungal activities. Mutant analysis revealed that the pltD mutant, lacking PLT production, exhibited only 30% inhibition of grey mold disease, while the phlC mutant, deficient in 2,4-DAPG production but with a marked increase in PLT, demonstrated 65% inhibition. In contrast, the wild-type FD6 strain showed complete suppression of the pathogen, with no visible disease lesions on tomato fruits after 5 days of treatment. These findings underscore the critical roles of PLT and 2,4-DAPG, with PLT being particularly crucial for the high-level inhibition of fungal pathogens. The inverse relationship between the production of these two metabolites highlights the complexity of the biocontrol mechanisms in P. protegens FD6 (Zhang et al., 2020).

For wheat take-all disease, Pseudomonas spp. have been used as potential alternatives to conventional chemical treatments. Pseudomonas species offer resilience under unfavorable conditions and exhibit promising colonization abilities with cereal crop roots (Al Zadjali et al., 2023; Capper and Higgins, 1993; Dowling and O'Gara, 1994; Thomashow and Weller, 1988; Xu et al., 2021). Thus, the exploration of Pseudomonas-based biocontrol agents holds significant promise in augmenting sustainable agricultural practices, heralding a new era in crop protection strategies.

Siderophores constitute a group of secondary metabolites synthesized by various bacteria, fungi, yeast, and specific plants in response to iron scarcity (Dwivedi and Johri, 2003). These low molecular weight molecules, typically ranging from 500–1,500 Daltons, exhibit a strong binding affinity for iron (III) (Hider and Kong, 2010). The term “siderophore” is derived from the Greek, meaning “iron carrier” (Neilands, 1995); the first siderophore was isolated during 1949–1952 (Hider and Kong, 2010). The first crystalline form of siderophore was isolated by Neilands (Neilands, 1952), sparking research into these iron-chelating compounds (Chincholkar et al., 2000). Kloepper et al. (1980) provided initial evidence of siderophores from plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) acting as biocontrol agents. The ability of an organism to produce siderophores is closely related to cyanide production, and their absence can impact the biocontrol activity of the microbes and their ability to restrict iron access to target pathogens (Ho et al., 2021; Jha et al., 2011). Iron plays an important role in the life of nearly all living organisms (Krewulak and Vogel, 2008).

Plants rely heavily on iron for various vital processes such as photosynthesis, oxygen metabolism, DNA and RNA synthesis, and more (Aznar et al., 2015; Rout and Sahoo, 2015). However, in many natural environments with aerobic conditions and neutral pH levels, iron exists mainly in its oxidized ferric (Fe³⁺) state, which is largely insoluble and limits its availability to plants (Colombo et al., 2014). The siderophores act as high-affinity chelating agents to solubilize ferric ions and transport them to the plant or bacterial cell where it is converted to Fe²⁺ (Kramer et al., 2020). Moreover, restricting the supply of iron to pathogens acts as a strategy to hinder their growth, owing to the insolubility of ferric iron forms (Kramer et al., 2020; Lau et al., 2016).

Siderophores can take up the iron available in the surrounding environment, and subsequently, iron is acquired by the organisms possessing receptors for that siderophore-iron complex, making it unavailable to their competitors (Hakim et al., 2021). Besides being used as iron carriers, bacterial siderophore-iron complexes can also be utilized by certain plants aiding in their better growth (Pathak et al., 2017). Among the Gram-negative bacteria where over 90% of the bacterial population produces siderophores, the most dominant genera are Enterobacter and Pseudomonas (Tian et al., 2009). Among Pseudomonas species, pyoverdine is the predominant siderophore observed (Cornelis and Matthijs, 2002; Ghssein and Ezzeddine, 2022).

Siderophores primarily contribute to the survival and fitness of microbial populations, directly and indirectly enhancing the activity of biocontrol species (Gull and Hafeez, 2012; Kanimozhi and Perinbam, 2011). For example, siderophores from P. fluorescens strain Mst 8.2 were shown to be a potent inhibitor against R. solani, with 70% disease reduction in wheat (Gull and Hafeez, 2012). Similarly, siderophores from P. fluorescens Lp1 have been used to inhibit plant fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus flavus, Curvularia spp., and Fusarium spp. (Kanimozhi and Perinbam, 2011).

Pseudomonas species are known to produce a wide array of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with various functions and applications in agricultural settings (Hernández-León et al., 2015). These VOCs are small molecules characterized by low molecular weights and high vapor pressures, allowing them to diffuse effectively through soil pores and influence microbial communities and plant health (Wheatley, 2002).

Pseudomonas strains can generate complex mixtures of VOCs, although the full extent of their functional diversity is still being elucidated (Schmidt et al., 2015). Some VOCs produced by Pseudomonas spp. exhibit antimicrobial properties against phytopathogens, making them potential candidates for biocontrol applications. For instance, studies have identified Pseudomonas-derived VOCs with antifungal activity against a range of plant pathogens, including Verticillium spp., Fusarium spp., and Rhizoctonia spp. (Cordero et al., 2014; Elkahoui et al., 2015; Montes-Osuna et al., 2022). Pseudomonas sp. PICF6 produces 20 VOCs, that include compounds with reported antifungal (e.g., 1-undecene, (methyldisulfanyl) methane and 1-decene) or plant growth promoting (e.g., tridecane, 1-decene) activities (Montes-Osuna et al., 2022). These findings suggest that Pseudomonas-derived VOCs could serve as biofumigants to mitigate the proliferation of pathogenic species and promote plant health.

Further studies have investigated the antifungal activity of VOCs produced by P. fluorescens ZX against postharvest fungal pathogens (Wang et al., 2021; Yue et al., 2023). The research demonstrates that P. fluorescens ZX VOCs effectively inhibit the growth of both Penicillium italicum and Botrytis cinerea, causative agents of blue mold in citrus and gray mold in various fruits, respectively (Wang et al., 2021; Yue et al., 2023). The VOCs significantly suppressed mycelial growth, conidial germination, and sporulation of these pathogens in vitro and reduced disease incidence and lesion size on infected fruits in vivo. Mechanistically, the VOCs primarily act by damaging the pathogens’ cell membrane integrity and permeability, leading to cellular content leakage, decreased ergosterol biosynthesis, and increased malondialdehyde content (Wang et al., 2021; Yue et al., 2023). Additionally, the VOCs interfere with pathogen respiration by inhibiting key enzymes such as ATPase, malate dehydrogenase, and succinate dehydrogenase, causing energy metabolism disruption and reactive oxygen species accumulation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant changes in gene expression related to membrane components and amino acid metabolism pathways in treated pathogens (Wang et al., 2021; Yue et al., 2023).

However, to fully harness the potential of Pseudomonas VOCs for practical applications, further investigations are necessary to fully characterize their production within the plant root system and assess their efficacy under natural environmental conditions. By exploring the roles of Pseudomonas-derived VOCs in plant-microbe interactions, researchers can unlock valuable insights into sustainable strategies for crop protection and soil management.

Pseudomonas spp., in addition to their antimicrobial activities, have also demonstrated the capability to produce potent anthelmintic compounds, they can destroy parasitic worms and nematodes (Devaraj et al., 2019; Lee C. H. et al., 2000). While not as extensively studied in Pseudomonas as in Streptomyces, the potential for nematode control exists within this bacterial genus (Table 2) (Devaraj et al., 2019; Lee C. H. et al., 2000; Rahanandeh et al., 2024; Spiegel et al., 1991; Wang et al., 2024a; Wang et al., 2024b).

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are among the most economically damaging plant-parasitic nematodes worldwide, causing significant yield losses in many crops (Sun et al., 2021). These microscopic roundworms infect plant roots, forming characteristic galls or “knots” that disrupt water and nutrient uptake. Meloidogyne incognita is one of the most widespread and studied species, with a broad host range and short generation time that makes it particularly difficult to control.

One study investigated the potential of a strain of P. fluorescens as a biocontrol agent against Meloidogyne javanica, another important root-knot nematode species (Norabadi et al., 2014). In greenhouse and laboratory experiments, P. fluorescens application significantly reduced nematode infection compared to the control group. The bacteria destroyed the nematode egg mass matrix and decreased egg-hatching levels. Additionally, P. fluorescens inoculation led to increased activities of peroxidase (POX) and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), key enzymes associated with plant defense mechanisms (Norabadi et al., 2014). These observations suggest that P. fluorescens effectively suppress nematode populations by disrupting egg structures and inducing systemic resistance in plants.

Recent research has expanded our understanding of Pseudomonas spp. potential for control of both nematodes and insect pests (Wang et al., 2024a; Wang et al., 2024b). For example, Pseudomonas chlororaphis PcR3-3, isolated from willow roots, exhibited high insecticidal activity against the coleopteran pest Plagiodera versicolora (Wang et al., 2024a). This leaf beetle is a significant pest of willow and poplar trees. While this study primarily focused on insecticidal activity, it highlights the diverse capabilities of Pseudomonas strains against different invertebrates. The genome of P. chlororaphis PcR3-3 was found to contain several genes potentially involved in insect pathogenicity, including those encoding chitinase C and phospholipase C (Wang et al., 2024b). These enzymes have been previously associated with the disruption of insect gut structures and could potentially play a role in nematode control as well.

Other studies have demonstrated the nematicidal potential of Pseudomonas spp. against the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus loosi, a significant pest of tea plants (Rahanandeh et al., 2024). It was found that P. fluorescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains, which were isolated from tea rhizosphere, produced proteases with strong nematicidal activity. These proteases were capable of completely degrading Pratylenchus loosi nematodes within 8 h of exposure (Rahanandeh et al., 2024). Characterization of the proteases revealed them to be metalloproteases and serine proteases, classes of enzymes known to be involved in the degradation of nematode cuticles.

Although the research exploring Pseudomonas spp. as a source of anthelmintic compounds is relatively limited in Pseudomonas compared to other prokaryotes, these studies have indicated the potential of certain Pseudomonas strains to control populations of both plant-parasitic nematodes and insect pests. Given the diverse array of natural products synthesized by Pseudomonas strains and their interactions within soil ecosystems, it is likely that additional anthelmintic compounds may be discovered among Pseudomonas spp. Metabolites (Devaraj et al., 2019). This highlights the potential of Pseudomonas species as versatile biocontrol agents capable of addressing multiple agricultural pest problems.

The Type VI Secretion System (T6SS) has emerged as a pivotal weapon in bacterial warfare, allowing bacteria to deliver toxic effectors directly into neighboring cells (Mougous et al., 2006; Pukatzki et al., 2006). T6SSs are present in more than 25% of gram-negative bacteria (Ho et al., 2014). The T6SS is a contact-dependent secretion system that plays a crucial role in interbacterial competition (Mougous et al., 2006; Pukatzki et al., 2006). It provides a selective advantage to producer strains by annihilating competitors either in an indiscriminate manner or in response to danger signals (Basler et al., 2013; Durán et al., 2021; Ho et al., 2014; Hood et al., 2010). The T6SS was originally described in Vibrio cholerae and P. aeruginosa as a proteinaceous nanomachine that translocates specific proteins directly into target cells (Mougous et al., 2006; Pukatzki et al., 2006). It was later observed and analyzed in many other bacterial pathogens (Burtnick et al., 2011; De Pace et al., 2010; Murdoch et al., 2011; Suarez et al., 2008). However, the analytical description of T6SS in non-pathogenic bacteria is underrepresented in the scientific literature (Bernal et al., 2017; Durán et al., 2021; Marchi et al., 2013).

The killing activity conferred by antibacterial T6SSs can be extremely potent during in vitro co-culture experiments, with T6SS-wielding cells often able to virtually eliminate similar numbers of susceptible competitor cells within a few hours (Basler et al., 2013; Durán et al., 2021; Ho et al., 2014). Antibacterial T6SSs are frequently found in both pathogenic and symbiotic or beneficial plant-associated bacteria (Bernal et al., 2018; Durán et al., 2021). This suggests that antibacterial T6SSs may be involved in establishing and protecting beneficial plant-associated communities from invasion of these communities by pathogens. For example, the T6SS-dependent antibacterial activity in the rhizosphere bacterium P. putida KT2440 contributes to reducing colonization and necrosis induced by the phytopathogen Xanthomonas campestris when both are co-infiltrated into Nicotiana benthamiana leaves (Bernal et al., 2017).

Further in planta studies show that T6SS in P. fluorescens MFE01 play crucial role in protecting potato tubers from Pectobacterium atrosepticum infection (Bourigault et al., 2023). Fluorescence microscopy revealed that MFE01 exhibits an aggressive T6SS behavior with continuous and intense firing activity, causing rounding and lysis of target P. atrosepticum cells. The study identified a putative T6SS-secreted amidase effector, Tae3Pf, as a major contributor to MFE01’s antibacterial activity. This effector was found to be toxic when produced in the periplasm of Escherichia coli, with its toxicity neutralized by the inner membrane immunity protein Tai3Pf. While Tae3Pf plays a significant role, the research suggests that other T6SS effectors likely contribute to MFE01’s overall antibacterial activity (Bourigault et al., 2023). These findings highlight the importance of the T6SS in P. fluorescens MFE01’s biocontrol capabilities, offering new perspectives on bacterial antagonism in the context of plant protection and potentially leading to the development of more effective biocontrol strategies in agriculture.

Numerous studies have focused on enhancing the effectiveness and consistency of Pseudomonas spp. biocontrol agents through various agricultural practices and interventions (Zhang et al., 2015). This includes the identification of several minerals and carbon sources that have a differential influence on the production of the antibiotics 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol, pyoluteorin and pyrrolnitrin and the salicylic acid and pyochelin by disease-suppressive strains of P. fluorescens (Duffy and Défago, 1999). For example, the addition of glycerol, zinc and ammonium molybdate to P. protegens CHA0 has shown promise in increasing its biocontrol efficacy against Meloidogyne javanica (Hamid et al., 2003; Siddiqui and Shaukat, 2002). Additionally, adding zinc to soil containing P. fluorescens PfAs1 has enhanced the expression of genes resistant to bacterial leaf blight in rice, while also significantly reducing bacterial leaf blight in rice caused by X. oryzae pv. oryzae (Sharma et al., 2020). Similarly, supplementing P. fluorescens NK2 with the zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO-NP) enhances the inhibition efficacy against the pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas viridiflava NK2 in cucumber (Al-Karablieh et al., 2022).

Beyond strain inoculation, various agricultural practices significantly impact the composition and establishment of species within the plant root microbiome. Practices like irrigation, tillage, and cropping methods can play crucial roles (Babin et al., 2019; Dennert et al., 2018; Mavrodi et al., 2018). Agro-chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers also shape the plant root and soil microbiome, offering protection against crop diseases (Ding et al., 2013; Shen et al., 2019). For instance, ammonia fumigation effectively suppresses Fusarium wilt disease in bananas (Musa acuminate Cavendish) while inducing shifts in the soil microbial community, notably reducing Fusarium species abundance (Shen et al., 2019). Studies suggest that combining organic fertilizers with biocontrol strains enhances disease suppression further. Thus, the addition of biocontrol strains to organic fertilizers before application creates a more conducive soil environment, fostering nutrient availability, root colonization, and biocontrol effectiveness, a strategy known as bio-organic fertilizer application, widely recognized for its efficacy in disease suppression (Ding et al., 2013; Ketabchi et al., 2016; Watanabe et al., 1987).

Conversely, certain chemical additives and carbon compounds have been found to impede the biocontrol efficacy of Pseudomonas spp. For example, the addition of glucose can hinder the efficacy of P. protegens CHA0 against Meloidogyne javanica (Siddiqui and Shaukat, 2002). However, some Pseudomonas strains exhibit a high tolerance to commonly used fungicidal compounds, paving the way for synergistic approaches where chemical and biological pest control methods can be combined to enhance efficacy while reducing the overall pesticide dose (Anand et al., 2010; Kataria et al., 2002).

While these findings suggest the potential for optimizing farming practices to maximize disease suppression, comprehensive research in this area remains limited. The complexity of agricultural ecosystems and the variability in pathogen dynamics necessitates further investigation to identify the most effective strategies tailored to specific pathogens, climatic conditions, and soil characteristics. Nonetheless, exploring the interplay between Pseudomonas spp. biocontrol agents, agricultural practices, and chemical additives hold promise for sustainable disease management and crop protection.

Numerous methods exist for delivering biocontrol strains to crops, each potentially influencing the consistency of biocontrol strategies (Jambhulkar et al., 2016; Preininger et al., 2018). Foliar spraying may seem appealing, especially in developed countries with available spraying equipment, but microbial suspensions can damage or clog machinery due to settling out of solution, and stresses from spraying apparatus (e.g., heat stress, shearing forces) can reduce biocontrol strain viability (Figure 2) (Preininger et al., 2018). Moreover, foliar spray that is suitable for microbial inoculants targeting foliar diseases (Jambhulkar et al., 2016) is often less effective for controlling root diseases like wheat take-all. Soil inoculation, another recommended method, is often employed if biocontrol strains are susceptible to desiccation (Jambhulkar et al., 2016). As discussed earlier, methods such as bio-organic fertilizer application (Ding et al., 2013; Ketabchi et al., 2016; Watanabe et al., 1987) can enhance biocontrol strain success. However, these strategies may increase the expense and complexity of applying disease-suppressive measures, while also potentially altering soil chemistry and microbiome composition with unknown or conflicting effects (Babin et al., 2019; Shen et al., 2019).

Direct inoculation of biocontrol strains onto plant roots offers a strategy to bypass challenges associated with soil-survivability as the strain bypasses exposure to an environmental medium before colonizing roots (Jambhulkar et al., 2016; Pill, 1991). Techniques like fluid drill inoculation and root transplant dip exemplify this approach, allowing biocontrol agents to colonize roots under controlled conditions (Jambhulkar et al., 2016; Pill, 1991). In root dip, seedling roots are immersed in a liquid cell suspension before field transfer, while in fluid drill methods, seeds pre-germinate within a gel containing the biocontrol strain (Jambhulkar et al., 2016; Pill, 1991). Root dip has demonstrated enhanced root colonization by Pseudomonas compared to soil inoculation in some cases (Pathak et al., 2004), effectively protecting crops against R. solani. Other studies showed that root dip was effective for P. fluorescens SBW25 to colonize the root of wheat (Guan et al., 2024). However, pre-germinating plants and manually inoculating roots are labor-intensive processes compared to purchasing pre-coated seeds (O’Callaghan, 2016). Similarly, fluid drill methods have shown increased root colonization by inoculated bacterial strains, in limited studies, indicating efficient disease suppression (Clarkson et al., 2002; Hardaker and Hardwick, 1978). Nevertheless, research exploring the ecological impact of fluid drill gel application remains sparse.

As mentioned, plants can also undergo colonization by coating the seed with a formulation of biocontrol strain spores or cells, employing various methods to adhere biocontrol strains to the seed surface. For instance, seeds may be submerged in a microbial suspension and subsequently dried before seed germination (known as bio-priming) (Callan et al., 1990), or a liquid cell suspension or adhesive may be utilized to coat the seed in bacterial cells (referred to as film coating) (O’Callaghan, 2016). Seed coating technologies effectively deliver biocontrol strains directly to the soil surrounding a germinating seed and the rhizosphere (Jambhulkar et al., 2016; O’Callaghan, 2016), with numerous instances demonstrating the efficacy of seed coating approaches in disease suppression in both field and laboratory settings (Ardakani et al., 2010; Callan et al., 1990; El-Mougy and Abdel-Kader, 2008; Ma et al., 2019; Prathuangwong et al., 2013). This includes several studies showcasing the effectiveness of seed coatings as delivery methods for Pseudomonas spp. biocontrol strains (Ardakani et al., 2010; Prathuangwong et al., 2013). In addition, scientists have recently reported developing a unique procedure to introduce endophytic bacteria into plant seeds so that it was no longer necessary to treat the seeds before planting (Glick and Gamalero, 2021).

While the focus of this review is on Pseudomonas as biocontrol agents, it is worth noting an emerging trend in the use of nanoparticle-based Pseudomonas biofertilizers. Although primarily applied for plant growth promotion rather than disease control, this innovative approach may have implications for biocontrol strategies. Nanoparticle-based biocontrol formulations have shown significant potential in overcoming delivery challenges (El-Ghamry et al., 2018). In these formulations, plant growth-promoting bacteria and nutrients are encapsulated within nanoscale polymers (nanoencapsulation) (Golbashy et al., 2017). This method enhances soil microbial activity, improves aeration, and supports natural fertilization (Itelima et al., 2018). For instance, selenium nanoparticles combined with Pseudomonas spp. have been used to improve crop nutrition and soil quality (Sonali et al., 2024) However, not all nanoparticles interact synergistically with Pseudomonas spp. (Dimkpa et al., 2012a; Dimkpa et al., 2012b). For example, zinc nanoparticles were found to enhance siderophore production more effectively than copper nanoparticles, which inhibited the expression of genes related to siderophore transport (Dimkpa et al., 2012a). These findings suggest that while nanoparticle-based biocontrol formulations hold significant promise in enhancing soil health and crop productivity, their interactions with specific biocontrol strains, such as Pseudomonas spp., are complex and not always synergistic.

The successful delivery of biocontrol strains remains a key challenge in modern agriculture, with methods ranging from foliar sprays to seed coatings and root inoculation. While each approach offers distinct advantages, the complexity of balancing cost, labor, and ecological impact must be carefully considered. Recent advancements, such as nanoparticle-based biocontrol formulations, hold great potential for improving efficacy and sustainability. However, the variability in interactions between nanoparticles and biocontrol strains like Pseudomonas spp. underscores the need for further research to optimize these technologies for widespread agricultural use.

In addition to increasing the competitiveness of bacterial strains when applied to seeds and soil, leveraging the mechanisms by which plants selectively recruit microbial species from the soil could enhance the efficacy of biocontrol strains (Ryan et al., 2009; Zhang et al., 2015). Plants release approximately 20–40% of photosynthetically fixed carbon through their roots into the soil, comprising various compounds like ions, amino acids, sugars, phenolics, mucilage, polysaccharides, and proteins (Badri et al., 2013; Bais et al., 2006; el Zahar Haichar et al., 2016; Zhalnina et al., 2018). This root exudation triggers a surge in microbial abundance and activity in the soil surrounding the roots, known as the “rhizosphere effect,” as many microbes are attracted to the carbon-rich nutrients exuded from the roots (Bais et al., 2006); soil microbes come to plant rhizospheres to feed. Moreover, exudates potentially act as a filtering mechanism, enabling plants to selectively enrich for specific microbial species with certain metabolic capabilities (Bais et al., 2006). Experiments profiling the root exudates of Arabidopsis thaliana have shown that specific exudate compounds correlate with the abundances of specific bacterial taxa, indicating their role in microbial recruitment (Badri et al., 2013; Chaparro et al., 2013; Chaparro et al., 2014). Stable isotope probing experiments have further revealed that different microbial taxa metabolize plant root exudates based on differences in exudate composition (el Zahar Haichar et al., 2016; Haichar et al., 2008; Haichar et al., 2012). Additionally, root exudation can be influenced by abiotic and biotic factors, including responses to pathogens, which alter the microbial community composition (Jousset et al., 2011; Lanoue et al., 2010).

Beyond changes in their relative abundance, root exudates may alter the functionality of the root microbiome by modifying microbial gene expression (Chaparro et al., 2014). For instance, benzoxazinoid-related compounds, exuded by maize roots, correlate with an increased number of microbial transcripts related to beneficial P. putida, which resulted in significantly higher numbers of P. putida cells colonizing the root (Neal et al., 2012).

Understanding the relationships between root exudate composition, microbial community structure, and microbiome functionality offers promising avenues for enhancing crop productivity and health. Engineering plants to produce specific root exudates could improve the colonization potential and efficacy of beneficial species and biocontrol agents, such as Pseudomonas spp. (Ali and Glick, 2024). Arabidopsis mutant lines engineered with altered root exudation profiles have shown increased recruitment of beneficial rhizobacteria, suggesting similar approaches could be applied to cereal crops through breeding or genetic modification (Badri et al., 2009; Bressan et al., 2009; Huang et al., 2019). However, there remains a substantial knowledge gap regarding the compounds acting as signals and nutrients for bacteria of interest. While cues are well-defined for certain plant-microbe symbioses, many other systems lack a detailed understanding. Advanced tools like stable isotope probing, metabolomics, dual RNA sequencing, and imaging mass spectrometry are beginning to elucidate some of these interactions, paving the way for a deeper understanding of plant-microbe dynamics in the future (Berry et al., 2013; Camilios-Neto et al., 2014; el Zahar Haichar et al., 2016; Haichar et al., 2012; Zhalnina et al., 2018).

It is generally assumed that suppression of plant pathogens by Pseudomonas spp. is based on two primary features: (1) production of natural products (direct inhibition), and (2) stimulation of ISR, which activates the plant defense system against harmful microbes and viruses. The expression of genes and natural products of Pseudomonas is influenced by growth and environmental conditions (Chin-A-Woeng et al., 2003; Hamid et al., 2003). These conditions can negatively affect the efficacy of Pseudomonas spp. as biocontrol strains (Nadeem et al., 2016). For instance, biocontrol Pseudomonas strains may perform well in one location or field season but not the next, owing to a wide range of biotic and abiotic factors in the soil environment that can adversely impact the Pseudomonas strain’s root colonization, expression of genes involved in biocontrol and/or activity of biocontrol metabolites (Babin et al., 2019; Classen et al., 2015; Edwards et al., 2015; Rousk et al., 2010).

Based on the increasing knowledge of the molecular mechanisms that underline natural product synthesis, the use of improved genetically modified biocontrol agents in agricultural seems feasible. However, the intentional release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) requires extensive analysis of their potential ecological impact (Glick and Skof, 1986; Kolseth et al., 2015; Then et al., 2020). Moreover, the issue of whether GMOs could affect non-target organisms needs to be addressed. Laboratory experiments must be conducted before the release of GMOs into the natural environment.

Many studies have engineered Pseudomonas strains to enhance their biocontrol efficacy (Bakker et al., 2002; Barahona et al., 2011; Glandorf et al., 2001; Leeflang et al., 2002; Niemann et al., 1997; Shaukat and Siddiqui, 2003; Viebahn et al., 2003; Xiao-Jing et al., 2005). For instance, P. putida WCS358 was genetically modified to overproduce the antifungal compound 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (Phl) (Bakker et al., 2002; Glandorf et al., 2001; Leeflang et al., 2002), this genetically modified strain displays enhanced antifungal activity (Glandorf et al., 2001). Modified derivatives of strain P. putida WCS358 caused transient shifts in the composition of bacterial and fungal communities in the rhizosphere of wheat. However, they had no effect on soil metabolic activities (Bakker et al., 2002; Glandorf et al., 2001; Leeflang et al., 2002). In addition, a hypermotile mutant of P. fluorescens F113 was superior to the wild-type strain in colonizing the plant rhizosphere and controlling Fusarium oxysporum and Phytophthora cactorum pathogenesis (Barahona et al., 2011).

By harnessing the power of genetic modification, researchers may be able to tailor Pseudomonas strains to target specific pathogens while minimizing unintended ecological impacts (Barahona et al., 2011; Glandorf et al., 2001; Leeflang et al., 2002; Viebahn et al., 2003). These advancements pave the way for sustainable and environmentally friendly strategies to combat crop diseases, contributing to the overall resilience and productivity of agricultural systems. Continued research and innovation in this area holds promise for further enhancing the biocontrol potential of genetically modified Pseudomonas strains, ultimately benefiting farmers and ecosystems alike.

Beyond these logistical hurdles, the safety concerns regarding clinical toxicity and environmental persistence pose additional obstacles to the commercialization of Pseudomonas spp. as biocontrol agents, necessitating extensive screening processes that impede progress (Fravel, 2005). Many candidate biocontrol agents are not well characterized and lack a thorough assessment of their non-target effects, leaving gaps in our understanding of their ecological impacts (Viaene et al., 2016; Winding et al., 2004).

An underlying concern with using antagonistic bacteria like Pseudomonas spp. as biocontrol agents is the diverse array of secondary metabolites they produce, which could potentially exert unintended non-target effects, including those detrimental to human health (Deising et al., 2017). While these metabolites effectively target pathogens, some may also pose risks to human cells by interacting with essential human metabolites, such as cholesterol (Zotchev, 2003). The actual production and concentration of antimicrobials by biocontrol agents in the soil remains inadequately explored (Deising et al., 2017; Winding et al., 2004). Some evidence suggests that the role of antimicrobials in inhibiting pathogens within the plant root niche might be minor compared to other traits like resource competition and immune system activation (Hennessy et al., 2017; Koch et al., 2018). The tight regulation of gene clusters encoding secondary metabolites raises the possibility that their activation depends on the direct interaction with specific pathogenic species, potentially minimizing non-target effects compared to the widespread use of purified antimicrobial molecules (Bertrand et al., 2014; Van der Meij et al., 2017). Nonetheless, deeper insights into the in vivo behavior and concentration of secondary metabolites produced by biocontrol agents are essential to develop strategies that mitigate non-target effects.

Notwithstanding several studies highlighting the influence of Pseudomonas spp. on individual plant symbionts, broader investigations into the impacts of these bacteria on the soil ecosystem and root microbiome are relatively scant (Balser et al., 2002; Glick and Gamalero, 2021; Khatoon et al., 2020; Lv et al., 2023). The introduction of biocontrol strains at low densities, such as through seed coatings, may have limited effects on the indigenous microbial community, especially in highly diverse soils (Koch et al., 2018). However, larger inoculations could modify existing soil communities, with some studies demonstrating short-term alterations in microbial composition following biocontrol strain application (Schmidt et al., 2014; Winding et al., 2004). Understanding the long-term implications of biocontrol strain application on pathogen populations, soil microbiome functionality, and environmental processes requires meticulously designed experiments, incorporating indicators like mycorrhizal abundance and functional gene expression related to plant-beneficial processes (Schmidt et al., 2014; Sisaphaithong et al., 2012; Winding et al., 2004). Rigorous controls are imperative to delineate the specific impacts of biocontrol Pseudomonas strains on soil microbiomes, paving the way for informed decision-making in sustainable agriculture (Winding et al., 2004).

Genetically modified biocontrol agents offer several potential advantages over conventional chemical pesticides. They can be engineered to have increased efficacy, broader host range, improved persistence in the environment, and enhanced production of antimicrobial compounds (Glandorf, 2019; Scheepmaker et al., 2016; Tonui et al., 2022). For example, Pseudomonas strains have been modified to overproduce antifungal metabolites, leading to better suppression of plant pathogens (Glandorf, 2019; Scheepmaker et al., 2016; Tonui et al., 2022). Genetically modified biocontrol agents could provide more targeted pest control while reducing reliance on chemical pesticides, aligning with goals for integrated pest management and sustainable agriculture (Scheepmaker et al., 2016).

However, the development and use of genetically modified biocontrol agents also raise important biosafety concerns that require careful consideration. One primary concern is the potential for unintended ecological impacts. While these biocontrol agents are designed to target specific pests, their release into complex ecosystems could have unforeseen consequences on non-target organisms or broader ecological processes. For instance, there are questions about whether genetically modified biocontrol agents could outcompete native microbial populations or disrupt existing ecological balances (Glandorf, 2019; Scheepmaker et al., 2016; Tonui et al., 2022).

Another significant concern is the potential for horizontal gene transfer. Genetically modified biocontrol agents carry modified genetic material, and there is a possibility that these genes could be transferred to other microorganisms in the environment. This could potentially lead to the spread of engineered traits beyond the intended biocontrol agent, with unknown consequences for microbial ecology and potentially human health (Glandorf, 2019; Scheepmaker et al., 2016; Tonui et al., 2022). The likelihood and potential impacts of such gene transfer events need to be thoroughly assessed as part of the risk evaluation process for genetically modified biocontrol agents.