Universitas Brawijaya researchers identify rhizobacterial metabolites that fortify crop survival during severe drought conditions

Indonesian researchers discover how specific rhizobacterial strains produce proline and vitamins to help crops survive and recover from extreme drought.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 9:11 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from EurekAlert!

Microbial Solutions for a Warming Planet

As climate change continues to alter global weather patterns, approximately 20 percent of the world's arable land is now struggling under the weight of abiotic stresses like drought and salinity. Projections suggest this figure could rise to 45 percent by 2050, creating an urgent need for sustainable agricultural interventions. Professor Andi Kurniawan from Universitas Brawijaya in Indonesia has led a study into Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria, which are beneficial microorganisms that colonize root zones. According to the research published in Frontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering, these bacteria do more than just occupy space, they serve as metabolic factories that produce specific compounds designed to shield plants from environmental collapse.

Identifying the Chemical Shield

The research team isolated three specific strains, labeled RK1, RT2, and RT3, from the roots of potato and tomato plants to observe their chemical output. Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry, the scientists identified a sophisticated profile of metabolites, including essential vitamins such as riboflavin and biotin, alongside vital amino acids. Among these, proline emerged as the most abundant and significant component. According to the study, proline acts as a crucial osmoprotectant, helping the plant regulate its internal osmotic pressure and stabilize cellular structures when water becomes scarce. This chemical signaling effectively allows the plant to maintain its physiological integrity during prolonged dry spells.

Empirical Success in Model Crops

To test the practical efficacy of these strains, the researchers used lettuce as a model plant, subjecting it to controlled drought conditions. The results demonstrated that plants inoculated with the rhizobacteria had significantly higher survival rates than the uninoculated control group. Specifically, the RT3 strain was found to provide the highest overall survival rate, while the RT2 strain was most effective at helping plants recover their fresh weight after the stress period ended. These findings suggest that the presence of these bacteria provides a measurable physical advantage, allowing crops to bounce back from environmental damage that would otherwise be terminal.