A review on the isolation techniques and functional role of microbial endophytes from medicinal plants of India

Abstract

Microbial endophytes such as bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes residing asymptomatically within plant tissues play a pivotal role in enhancing plant health and resilience. This review focuses on the methodologies used for the isolation of microbial endophytes, especially from medicinal plants, and addresses critical aspects such as sample selection, sterilization, culturing media, and incubation conditions. It also explores the ecological significance of plant-microbe interactions, highlighting mechanisms of colonization, host specificity, and evasion of plant defense responses. Further, the review outlines advanced identification approaches, including molecular techniques and whole-genome sequencing, which have broadened our understanding of endophytic diversity and functionality. By integrating conventional and modern isolation strategies, this synthesis provides a comprehensive foundation for future research aimed at harnessing endophytes for agricultural innovation and environmental sustainability.