Latest progress (2020–2024) in bacterial endophyte research with special reference to plant disease management: achievements and challenges

The indiscriminate use of synthetic chemicals in agriculture is a major problem of recent times. These chemicals not only affect the environment but also pose severe health issues for humans and animals; therefore, finding new alternatives for sustainable agricultural systems is essential. Moreover, increasing awareness among the population regarding these adverse effects is encouraging a shift in farming practices towards organic and natural agricultural systems. To address the issue of synthetic agrochemicals in crop production, bacterial endophytes could be a promising strategy. These microorganisms reside within any of plant tissues without causing harm, play a critical role in promoting plant health, enhancing nutrient uptake, and increasing resistance to biotic as well as abiotic stresses. In this review, we summarize the literatures published from 2020 to 2024 on the functions of bacterial endophytes in various crops, particularly their applications in managing plant diseases. By reviewing the research work done on bacterial endophyte populations in recent years, we aim to assess their impact on plant growth, nutrient cycling, and resilience against pathogens, and also highlight their industrial applications. Moreover, symbiotic mechanisms owned by bacterial endophytes that enhance crop performance in various geographical locations have also been explored. The findings are expected to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices by optimizing bacterial endophyte application to improve yield, reduce dependency on synthetic fungicide inputs against crop diseases, and promote ecosystem health.