Introduction to Endophytic Microbes
What are endophytic microbes?
Microbes that live within plant tissues without causing harm
What are secondary metabolites?
Compounds produced by organisms that are not essential for growth but provide other benefits
What is agricultural biotechnology?
The use of technology and biology to improve plants and agricultural practices
What is environmental biotechnology?
The use of biological processes to address environmental issues
What is industrial enzyme production?
The creation of enzymes for use in manufacturing and other industries
Where are endophytic microbes found within plants? List all 4
In roots, stems, leaves, and sometimes seeds
Why are secondary metabolites important for plants?
They help protect plants against pathogens, pests, and environmental stress
How do endophytic microbes benefit agriculture?
They promote plant growth, increase crop yield, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers
How do endophytic microbes contribute to environmental sustainability?
They help reduce pollution and improve soil and water health
Name one enzyme produced by endophytic microbes used in industry?
Cellulase or Protease
Name one benefit endophytic microbes provide to plants?
1) They promote plant growth
2) Improve nutrient uptake
3) Increase stress resistance
Name one example of a secondary metabolite produced by endophytic microbes?
1) Antibiotics
2) Alkaloids
3) Flavonoids.
Name a plant hormone produced by endophytic microbes that promotes growth?
Auxin or Gibberellin
Name one way endophytic microbes can help with pollution cleanup?
They can break down pollutants or assist in bioremediation.
How are enzymes from endophytic microbes useful in manufacturing?
They help in processes like breaking down raw materials, textile production, and food processing
How do endophytic microbes differ from pathogenic microbes?
Endophytic microbes live harmlessly in plants, while pathogens cause disease
How do endophytic microbes help in the production of secondary metabolites?
They produce compounds that can enhance plant defense or promote growth
What role do endophytic microbes play in sustainable agriculture?
They reduce the need for chemical inputs and improve plant resilience
How can endophytic microbes improve soil health?
By breaking down organic matter and increasing nutrient availability
What is one benefit of using microbial enzymes in industrial processes?
They are efficient, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly
Describe or list the process by which endophytic microbes colonize plant tissues?
1) Attach to roots
2) Enter by producing enzymes to gently break down the root surface
3) Spread within the plant (stem & leaves)
4) Avoid detection by the plant’s immune system
Describe one application of secondary metabolites in medicine or agriculture?
They are used to create antibiotics, fungicides, or other disease-fighting agents
Describe how endophytic microbes improve plant resilience to environmental stress?
They help plants tolerate drought, salinity, and other stresses by enhancing nutrient uptake and producing stress-related compounds
Explain the role of endophytic microbes in bioremediation?
They can degrade harmful chemicals in the environment, such as hydrocarbons and heavy metals
Describe how endophytic microbes can be harnessed for large-scale enzyme production?
They can be cultured and optimized to produce enzymes that are harvested for various industrial uses