Melatonin produced by Bacillus bacteria and its effect on plants

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a hormone found in living organisms, where it acts as a biological regulator, influencing the normal course of development.

🌱 This hormone is responsible for the proper functioning of plants, playing a role in, among other things:

• protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS),

• stimulation of plant growth (an action similar to that of auxins),

• protection of chlorophyll from degradation under stressful conditions,

• regulation of photoperiodic responses.

🦠 Symbiotic rhizosphere bacteria (PGPR), including Bacillus, help plants by reducing pathogen pressure, increasing nutrient availability, and producing hormones.

🔬 Bacillus is a microorganism capable of synthesizing melatonin, which is why studies were conducted to determine whether this hormone can be transferred to plants.

📋 The results of a 2016 experiment showed that Bacillus strains produce significant amounts of melatonin, which supports plants by:

• reducing the impact of ROS,

• increasing melatonin levels in plant tissues,

• increasing root length by 50%,

• increasing plant size by 23%,

• and increasing chlorophyll content.

📈 Melatonin produced by Bacillus bacteria supports plant development by regulating their growth and increasing their resistance to adverse conditions.

💡 Beneficial soil microorganisms not only support plants but also provide a natural and environmentally friendly solution.