A review on microbe-mineral transformations and their impact on plant growth

Abstract

Mineral-microbe interaction is a driving environmental changes, regulating the biogeochemical cycling of elements, and contributing to the formation of ore deposits. Microorganisms are fundamental to mineral transformation processes, exerting a profound influence on biogeochemical cycles and the bioavailability of critical nutrients required for plant growth. In this review, we delve into the various mechanisms by which microbes facilitate mineral dissolution, precipitation, and transformation, with a particular focus on how these processes regulate the availability of both macronutrients and micronutrients in soils. Essential microbial activities such as phosphate solubilization, iron chelation, and sulfur oxidation play a pivotal role in enhancing nutrient uptake in plants, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. Furthermore, microbial-driven mineral transformations are vital for environmental remediation efforts, as they contribute to the immobilization of toxic metals and the detoxification of contaminated soils. By examining key microbial-mineral interactions-including nitrogen fixation, siderophore production, and metal precipitation-this review underscores the indispensable role of microorganisms in improving soil fertility, fostering plant growth, and bolstering ecosystem resilience. The exploration of these microbial processes reveals significant potential for advancing bioremediation strategies and the development of biofertilizers, offering promising solutions to enhance agricultural productivity and address environmental challenges.

Keywords: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF); biofertilizers; biogeochemical; bioremediation; heavy metal detoxification; microbial nutrient mobilization; microbial–mineral interactions; mineral transformation.

FIGURE 1

The figure highlights function of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in relieving abiotic stress and increasing plant growth in conditions of drought. PGPR improve drought resistance in plants by minimizing oxidative stress through the induction of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and APX) and enhancing nutrient acquisition through phosphate solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and siderophore production. PGPR regulate hormone response by inhibiting ABA levels to preserve stomatal function and photosynthesis. PGPR also produce ACC deaminase, which breaks down ACC and decreases ethylene synthesis and ethylene-induced growth inhibition during stress. Figure created using BioRender. Root structure was illustrated in a style inspired by published figures from Dr. Guillaume Lobet (ORCID: 0000-0002-5883-4572).

FIGURE 2

The figure highlights the interactions between plants and microbes in the rhizosphere, showcasing processes such as nitrogen fixation (Rhizobium converting N₂ to NH₄⁺), phosphorus solubilization by microbes like Bacillus and Pseudomonas, and stress adaptation mechanisms like EPS production for drought tolerance and heavy metal detoxification by fungi such as Aspergillus. These microbial activities boost nutrient uptake, support plant growth, and enhance stress resistance. The figure has been made using Bio render.

FIGURE 3

The figure highlights the mechanisms through which plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) increase crop yield are by both direct and indirect means. This figure demonstrates the two-way function of PGPR in sustainable agriculture. Direct mechanisms are production of phytohormones (e.g., auxins and cytokinins), solubilization of phosphate, nitrogen fixation, and siderophore and ammonia production for improving nutrient availability. Indirect mechanisms are induction of plant defense through production of cell wall-degrading enzymes, induction of induced systemic resistance (ISR), production of antimicrobial compounds, and production of hydrogen cyanide to inhibit phytopathogens. Figure created using BioRender. Root structure was illustrated in a style inspired by published figures from Dr. Guillaume Lobet (ORCID: 0000-0002-5883-4572).