Exploration of Bacterial Endophytes from the Whole Plant of Mimosa pudica: Isolation, Identification, and Biochemical Characterization

Background

Endophytes are non-pathogenic microorganisms that reside within plant tissues without causing symptoms of infection. Mimosa pudica Linn., a sensitive plant with a long history of traditional medicinal use for treating various ailments, has not been extensively studied for its associated endophytic bacteria. The current study aimed to isolate and characterize endophytic bacteria from the entire plant of Mimosa pudica and identify phytochemicals produced by these endophytes using conventional and molecular approaches.

Materials and Methods

Endophytic bacteria were isolated from the roots, stems, and leaves of Mimosa pudica using surface sterilization and culture techniques. The isolates were characterized based on biochemical traits, morphology, and molecular identification using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.

Results and Discussion

Eight endophytic bacterial strains were successfully isolated and identified, including Pseudomonas plecoglossicida (S1, S2), Pseudomonas putida (S3), Pseudomonas cichorii (S4), Enterobacter ludwigii (S5), Enterobacter asburiae (S6), Serratia proteamaculans (S7), and Bacillus pumilus (S8). The majority of isolates belonged to the Pseudomonas and Enterobacter genera. Functional analysis revealed that some endophytes exhibited traits such as hydrogen cyanide production and indole-3-acetic acid synthesis, suggesting potential roles in plant growth promotion and defense mechanisms. The presence of bioactive phytochemicals in endophytic extracts indicates their potential for pharmaceutical or agricultural applications.

Conclusion

This study highlights the diversity and functional capabilities of endophytic bacteria associated with Mimosa pudica. The identified endophytes, particularly those capable of producing bioactive compounds, could serve as promising candidates for further exploration in biotechnological applications, including plant growth promotion and secondary metabolite production.