Ethylene perception determines tomato plant growth induction by soil bacteria

Plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) are soil microorganisms able to interact with plants and stimulate their growth, positively affecting plant physiology and development. Ethylene is involved in plant development and abiotic response. Ibort et al. investigate whether ethylene perception is critical for plant-bacteria interaction and growth induction by assessing Inoculation effects of two PGPB strains (unable to produce and degrade ethylene) regarding ethylene sensitivity in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants at juvenile and mature stages.

Ethylene sensitivity is shown to be a determinant for Bacillus megaterium, but not involved in Enterobacter C7 promotion activity. The insights gained into PGPB effects on plant growth and physiology could have applications for agriculture, reducing use of chemicals and improving resource use and crop production.