Hydroxamate siderophores secreted by plant endophytic Pseudomonas putida elicit defense against blast disease in rice incited by Magnaporthe oryzae

Abstract Our study focuses on hydroxamate-type siderophores from Pseudomonas putida BP25, known for chelating ferric iron and aiding microbial growth in iron-deficient environments. Confirmed through CAS-agar and tetrazolium tests, a purified siderophore extract was obtained via ion-exchange chromatography. Applying varying concentrations of this siderophore to rice seedlings demonstrated concentration-dependent effects on shoot and root phenotypes. Prophylactic application on rice leaves significantly reduced blast severity (68.7%–97.0%), surpassing curative application (47.5%–86.87%). Additionally, the siderophore treatment elevated peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, and total phenols in rice plants. Defense-related genes linked to salicylic acid (OsPR1.1, OsNPR1, and OsPDF2.2), and other pathways (Oshox24, OsCLE, and OsGLP3-3, OsEIN2.4, and OsCSE) promoting blast suppression showed upregulation. However, the OsACS6 gene associated with ethylene-induced internodal elongation was significantly downregulated. Overall, our findings propose that the siderophore from P. putida BP25 induces defense gene transcription, offering potential for sustainable rice production via bio-formulation.