Interaction between plant-associated microbes and metabolite biosynthesis can significantly impact the quality, quantity, and bioactivity of plant-derived drugs.

Here are few examples:

Endophytic and rhizospheric microbes can activate biosynthetic pathways, enhancing metabolite production (e.g., increased artemisinin in A. annua due to fungal interactions).

Microbial stress signals (e.g., chitin, LPS) trigger jasmonic acid and salicylic acid pathways, boosting medicinal compound synthesis (e.g., mycorrhizal fungi enhancing curcumin production).

The interaction between plant microbiomes and secondary metabolite biosynthesis is a critical factor in determining drug efficacy. By harnessing beneficial microbes, we can enhance drug yield, bioavailability, and pharmacological potential, paving the way for microbiome-assisted drug development.