Insect-microbe interactions in advancing science and innovation

Insects have long drawn the attention of scientists due to their abundance, diversity and ecological importance. Over recent decades, entomological research has expanded beyond insect physiology and behavior to include their interactions with microbes. These associations can take countless forms ranging from mutualism to parasitism, and influence insect immunity, development, reproduction, and overall, their ecological success. Understanding these relationships has become a key priority in research, as it offers valuable insights into fundamental biological processes and as it enables applications in biotechnology, sustainable agriculture, and disease control. By tracing the history of key breakthroughs in the field, this review underscores the importance of integrating microbes into entomological research and highlights the far-reaching implications of their interaction with insects for both science and society.