Fuente: PubMed "plant biotechnology" BMC Plant Biol. 2026 May 30. doi: 10.1186/s12870-026-09076-7. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTThe use of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) is a promising strategy to offset the harmful effect of combined salinity and low phosphorus availability and constitutes an affordable solution to enhance agricultural productivity under co-occurring abiotic stresses. In the present study, we investigate the effect of seed inoculation with different PSB isolates on the responses of barley (Hordeum vulgare) seedlings exposed to salt stress, whether individually applied or in combination with phosphorus deficiency. PSB strains used showed beneficial effect by significantly improving barley response under single and/or combined stresses. Yet, effects were strain- and organ-specific. Considering the plant growth promoting effect, GS4f isolate (Pseudomonas sp.) was the most effective strain in relationship with better water status and photosynthesis activity. Seed inoculation with PSB also reduced Na+ content and enhanced K+ content along with higher phosphorus mobilization (as P accumulation and acid phosphatase activity). This was concomitant with decreased H2O2 production resulting in lower MDA content in stressed roots and leaves of inoculated plants. PSB Inoculation triggered the overall plant antioxidant defense, including enzymatic (SOD, CAT and GPX) under simultaneous salinity and low phosphorus availability. Overall, our findings provide valuable information for prospective production of effective biostimulants based on halotolerant PSB and further highlight the possibility of using this promising eco-friendly approach to improve plant growth in P-deficient and salt-affected soils.PMID:42226099 | DOI:10.1186/s12870-026-09076-7