Progress in plant rhizosphere microbiome research for improved growth, nutrient uptake, and disease resistance

• The rhizosphere microbiome regulates plant growth, nutrient uptake, and disease resistance through root - microbial crosstalk. • Microbial community assembly is driven by plant genotype, developmental stage, and soil properties. • The rhizosphere microbiome enhances plant growth via phytohormone production, nutrient solubilization, and nitrogen fixation. • Biofilm formation and ISR mechanisms boost disease resistance while reducing pesticide dependence. • Multi-omics and synthetic microbial consortia provide innovative tools for agricultural applications. The soil microbiome is a highly diverse ecosystem, with the rhizosphere, a dynamic interface between plant roots and soil, serving as a critical hub for microbial activity and plant-microbe interactions. Rhizosphere microorganisms, often referred to as the “second genome of plants”, interact with plants through complex and multifaceted mechanisms, significantly influencing plant health and productivity. Plant root exudates act as key drivers in chemically transforming this soil compartment, creating a dynamic ecosystem that shapes microbial community structure and functional processes within the root adjacent zone, shaping a stress-responsive microbial community capable of enhancing plant resilience. We focus on three interconnected functions—growth promotion, nutrient acquisition, and disease suppression—reconceptualizing them as integrated components of a plant stress-response system. These insights hold great promise for sustainable agriculture, particularly in addressing the dual challenges of rising global food demand and environmental pressures. Finally, we highlight how microbiome-based strategies, can pave the way toward sustainable agriculture amid growing climatic and environmental challenges.