Research Projects

Plants are often exposed to pathogens, leading to significant yield losses and economic damage. Traditional agrochemical management strategies have resulted in health hazards for humans and animals and negative environmental impacts. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant microbial strains poses a major challenge in the agriculture and food sector. Plants possess a well-developed innate immune system with various mechanisms to defend themselves against pathogens. Two key signaling molecules, salicylic acid (sA) and jasmonic acid (JA), play key roles in plant defense responses. Endophytes, microorganisms living inside plants, have recently gained attention for their role in plant processes. studies have shown that endophytes support plant growth promotion, maintain physiological status, and adapt to environmental stressors. They supplement phytochemicals in various metabolic pathways and strengthen resistance to pathogen attacks. This study aims to explore the role of endophytes in enhancing plant defense against Albugo candida in resistant and susceptible varieties of Brassica juncea. The research will also examine the impact of endophyte association on stress response and the changes in gene expression and downstream biochemical pathways activated in endophytes due to infestation. The findings can provide a comprehensive understanding of the diversity of symbiotic microbes and chemical interactions between endophytes and host plants, which can have significant implications in managing and conserving plant ecosystems.