Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Genetic Resistance: A Dual Approach to Crop Protection

The increasing pressure on global agriculture from biotic stresses, diminishing soil fertility, and the overuse of chemical pesticides has driven the search for sustainable crop protection strategies. Among these, Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and genetic resistance stand out as two highly promising and complementary approaches. PGPR enhance plant growth and health by facilitating nutrient acquisition, producing phytohormones, and activating plant defense responses, including induced systemic resistance. In parallel, advances in plant genetics—ranging from traditional breeding to modern gene-editing technologies—have enabled the development of disease-resistant cultivars with durable immunity against a wide range of pathogens. This review critically examines the mechanisms, benefits, and limitations of PGPR and host genetic resistance, and explores how their integration can provide a multifaceted, resilient, and environmentally sound solution for crop protection. Emphasis is placed on the molecular interactions, practical applications, and future directions for deploying these tools in tandem to support sustainable agricultural practices in the face of evolving global challenges.