Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Plant Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (26 May 2023) | Viewed by 42819

Special Issue Editors

College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
Interests: nutrient; abiotic stress; aluminum toxicity; iron deficiency; root development; receptor like kinase
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
Interests: cold stress; heat stress; thermomorphogenesis; post-translational modifications; signal transduction
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The global population has been predicted to reach up to 10 billion by the end of year 2050, and the food crisis will become a substantially critical issue worldwide. As the major source of food, plants live in constantly changing environments and face a series of abiotic stresses that are detrimental to plant growth and crop productivity. These abiotic stresses include drought, high-salinity, cold, hot, nutrient starvation and toxic metals. To cope with these stresses, plants have evolved particular strategies to respond and adapt to a certain stress. Yet, the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying plant abiotic stress responses is still limited, hence restricting the molecular breeding towards improving stresses tolerance.

This Special Issue of Life, entitled “Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants”, aims to focus on the latest research progress on the molecular bases of plants responding to different abiotic stresses and the relevant signaling pathways, as well as advanced techniques that help to enhance breeding or abiotic stress concerned research. The scope of this Special Issue covers a wide range of research on abiotic stresses from model plants to specific crops. Authors are welcomed to submit both articles and review papers.

Prof. Dr. Zhongjie Ding
Dr. Yanglin Ding
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • abiotic stress
  • drought
  • salt stress
  • cold
  • hot
  • nutrient starvation 
  • toxic metal 
  • signaling

Published Papers (23 papers)

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20 pages, 7157 KiB  
Article
Coastal Wetland Species Rumex hydrolapathum: Tolerance against Flooding, Salinity, and Heavy Metals for Its Potential Use in Phytoremediation and Environmental Restoration Technologies
by Silvija Ieviņa, Andis Karlsons, Anita Osvalde, Una Andersone-Ozola and Gederts Ievinsh
Life 2023, 13(7), 1604; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13071604 - 21 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 899
Abstract
Plants with high biomass adapted to conditions of increased moisture and with significant salt tolerance appear to be particularly attractive candidates for phytoremediation studies. The aim of the present study was to examine the tolerance of Rumex hydrolapathum plants to freshwater, saltwater inundation, [...] Read more.
Plants with high biomass adapted to conditions of increased moisture and with significant salt tolerance appear to be particularly attractive candidates for phytoremediation studies. The aim of the present study was to examine the tolerance of Rumex hydrolapathum plants to freshwater, saltwater inundation, and soil contaminated with heavy metals, as well as its metal accumulation potential in controlled conditions. Six separate vegetation container experiments in controlled conditions were performed with R. hydrolapathum plants to study the effects of soil moisture, waterlogging with NaCl, soil Cd, soil Cr, soil Ni, and soil Pb in the form of a nitrate or acetate. Optimum plant growth occurred in waterlogged soil conditions. As the concentration of NaCl used for waterlogging increased, the mass of living leaves decreased, but that of dry leaves increased. As a result, the total biomass of leaves did not significantly change. R. hydrolapathum plants were extremely tolerant to Cd and Pb, moderately tolerant to Ni, and relatively sensitive to Cr. The plants had high capacity for metal accumulation in older and senescent leaves, especially for Na+, K+, Cd, and Ni. R. hydrolapathum plants can tolerate soil waterlogging with seawater-level salinity, which, together with the metal tolerance and potential for metal accumulation in leaves, make them excellently suited for use in a variety of wastewater treatment systems, including constructed wetlands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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17 pages, 3148 KiB  
Article
Seed Treatment with Sodium Nitroprusside Ensures a Long-Term Physiological and Protective Effect on Wheat under Salinity
by Dilara Maslennikova, Inna Knyazeva, Oksana Vershinina, Andrey Titenkov and Oksana Lastochkina
Life 2023, 13(7), 1499; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13071499 - 02 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 908
Abstract
Although salinity inhibits plant growth, the use of a nitric oxide (NO) gasotransmitter can reduce its negative effects. In this study, the influence of 200 μM sodium nitroprusside (SNP) (donor of NO) on wheat plants (Triticum aestivum L., cv. Salavat Yulaev) in [...] Read more.
Although salinity inhibits plant growth, the use of a nitric oxide (NO) gasotransmitter can reduce its negative effects. In this study, the influence of 200 μM sodium nitroprusside (SNP) (donor of NO) on wheat plants (Triticum aestivum L., cv. Salavat Yulaev) in conditions of salinization (100 mM NaCl) was analyzed in pot experiments. Seed priming regulated the level of endogenous NO in normal and salinity conditions throughout the entire experiment (30 and 60 days). Salinity led to the strong accumulation of NO and H2O2, which is negative for plants, and significantly reduced leaf area and photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a and b and carotenoids). In addition, stress caused a drop in the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) and ascorbic acid (ASA), an accumulation of oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and significantly activated glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and lipid peroxidation (LPO) in wheat leaves. SNP treatment significantly attenuated the negative effects of salinity on leaf area and photosynthetic pigments. An important indicator of reducing the damaging effect of salinity on treated plants is the stabilization of the content of GSH and ASA throughout the experiment (60 days). This condition has been associated with long-term modulation of GR and APX activity. Such an effect of 200 μM SNP may be related to its ability to reduce stress-induced accumulation of NO. Additional accumulation of proline also mitigated the negative effect of salinity on plants, and this also evidenced decreased LPO and H2O2 in them. For the first time, in natural growing conditions (small-scale field experiments), it was found that pre-sowing seed treatment with 200 μM SNP led to an improvement in the main yield indicators and an increase in the content of essential amino acids in wheat grains. Thus, SNP treatment can be used as an effective approach for prolonged protection of wheat plants under salinity and to improve grain yield and its quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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22 pages, 5283 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Drought Responses in Two Tropaeolum Species Used in Landscaping through Morphological and Biochemical Markers
by Diana M. Mircea, Roberta Calone, Rashmi Shakya, Javier Zuzunaga-Rosas, Radu E. Sestras, Monica Boscaiu, Adriana F. Sestras and Oscar Vicente
Life 2023, 13(4), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13040960 - 06 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1126
Abstract
One of the most important challenges horticultural crops confront is drought, particularly in regions such as the Mediterranean basin, where water supplies are usually limited and will become even scarcer due to global warming. Therefore, the selection and diversification of stress-tolerant cultivars are [...] Read more.
One of the most important challenges horticultural crops confront is drought, particularly in regions such as the Mediterranean basin, where water supplies are usually limited and will become even scarcer due to global warming. Therefore, the selection and diversification of stress-tolerant cultivars are becoming priorities of contemporary ornamental horticulture. This study explored the impact of water stress on two Tropaeolum species frequently used in landscaping. Young plants obtained by seed germination were exposed to moderate water stress (half the water used in the control treatments) and severe water stress (complete withholding of irrigation) for 30 days. Plant responses to these stress treatments were evaluated by determining several growth parameters and biochemical stress markers. The latter were analysed by spectrophotometric methods and, in some cases, by non-destructive measurements using an optical sensor. The statistical analysis of the results indicated that although the stress responses were similar in these two closely related species, T. minus performed better under control and intermediate water stress conditions but was more susceptible to severe water stress. On the other hand, T. majus had a stronger potential for adaptation to soil water scarcity, which may be associated with its reported expansion and naturalisation in different regions of the world. The variations in proline and malondialdehyde concentrations were the most reliable biochemical indicators of water stress effects. The present study also showed a close relationship between the patterns of variation of flavonoid and chlorophyll contents obtained by sensor-based and spectrophotometric methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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28 pages, 5570 KiB  
Article
Effect of Drought on the Development of Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) and Selected Soil Parameters during a Three-Year Lysimetric Experiment
by Jakub Elbl, Vojtěch Lukas, Julie Sobotková, Igor Huňady and Antonín Kintl
Life 2023, 13(3), 745; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13030745 - 09 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 880
Abstract
This work presents results from a field experiment which was focused on the impact of the drought period on microbial activities in rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil. To demonstrate the effect of drought, the pot experiment lasted from 2012 to 2015. Fifteen lysimeters (plastic [...] Read more.
This work presents results from a field experiment which was focused on the impact of the drought period on microbial activities in rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil. To demonstrate the effect of drought, the pot experiment lasted from 2012 to 2015. Fifteen lysimeters (plastic containers) were prepared in our area of interest. These lysimeters were filled with the subsoil and topsoil from this area and divided into two groups. The first group consisted of two variants: V1 (control) and V2 (84 kg N/ha), which were not stressed by drought. The second group consisted of three variants, V3 (control), V4 (84 kg N/ha), and V5 (84 kg N/ha + 1.25 L lignohumate/ha), which were stressed by drought every year of the experiment for 30 days. Changes in the soil moisture content caused by drought significantly affect the growth of Deschampsia caespitosa L., the microbial activity, and the soil’s capacity to retain nutrients. The measured basal respiration and dehydrogenase activity values confirm the significant effect of drought on microbial activity. These values were demonstrably higher in the period before drought simulation by more than 60%. On the other hand, significant differences between microbial activities in the rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil were not found. We did not find a clear effect of drought on the formation of soil water repellency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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13 pages, 1454 KiB  
Article
Differential Accumulation of sHSPs Isoforms during Desiccation of the Resurrection Plant Haberlea rhodopensis Friv. under Optimal and High Temperature
by Gergana Mihailova, Magdalena Tchorbadjieva, Goritsa Rakleova and Katya Georgieva
Life 2023, 13(1), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13010238 - 14 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1173
Abstract
Haberlea rhodopensis belongs to the small group of angiosperms that can survive desiccation to air-dry state and quickly restore their metabolism upon rehydration. In the present study, we investigated the accumulation of sHSPs and the extent of non-photochemical quenching during the downregulation of [...] Read more.
Haberlea rhodopensis belongs to the small group of angiosperms that can survive desiccation to air-dry state and quickly restore their metabolism upon rehydration. In the present study, we investigated the accumulation of sHSPs and the extent of non-photochemical quenching during the downregulation of photosynthesis in H. rhodopensis leaves under desiccation at optimum (23 °C) and high temperature (38 °C). Desiccation of plants at 38 °C caused a stronger reduction in photosynthetic activity and corresponding enhancement in thermal energy dissipation. The accumulation of sHSPs was investigated by Western blot. While no expression of sHPSs was detected in the unstressed control sample, exposure of well-hydrated plants to high temperature induced an accumulation of sHSPs. Only a faint signal was observed at 50% RWC when dehydration was applied at 23 °C. Several cross-reacting polypeptide bands in the range of 16.5–19 kDa were observed in plants desiccated at high temperature. Two-dimensional electrophoresis and immunoblotting revealed the presence of several sHSPs with close molecular masses and pIs in the range of 5–8.0 that differed for each stage of treatment. At the latest stages of desiccation, fourteen different sHSPs could be distinguished, indicating that sHSPs might play a crucial role in H. rhodopensis under dehydration at high temperatures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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10 pages, 1790 KiB  
Article
Analysis of G-Quadruplex-Forming Sequences in Drought Stress-Responsive Genes, and Synthesis Genes of Phenolic Compounds in Arabidopsis thaliana
by Petr Pečinka, Natália Bohálová, Adriana Volná, Kristýna Kundrátová, Václav Brázda and Martin Bartas
Life 2023, 13(1), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13010199 - 10 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1449
Abstract
Sequences of nucleic acids with the potential to form four-stranded G-quadruplex structures are intensively studied mainly in the context of human diseases, pathogens, or extremophile organisms; nonetheless, the knowledge about their occurrence and putative role in plants is still limited. This work is [...] Read more.
Sequences of nucleic acids with the potential to form four-stranded G-quadruplex structures are intensively studied mainly in the context of human diseases, pathogens, or extremophile organisms; nonetheless, the knowledge about their occurrence and putative role in plants is still limited. This work is focused on G-quadruplex-forming sites in two gene sets of interest: drought stress-responsive genes, and genes related to the production/biosynthesis of phenolic compounds in the model plant organism Arabidopsis thaliana. In addition, 20 housekeeping genes were analyzed as well, where the constitutive gene expression was expected (with no need for precise regulation depending on internal or external factors). The results have shown that none of the tested gene sets differed significantly in the content of G-quadruplex-forming sites, however, the highest frequency of G-quadruplex-forming sites was found in the 5′-UTR regions of phenolic compounds’ biosynthesis genes, which indicates the possibility of their regulation at the mRNA level. In addition, mainly within the introns and 1000 bp flanks downstream gene regions, G-quadruplex-forming sites were highly underrepresented. Finally, cluster analysis allowed us to observe similarities between particular genes in terms of their PQS characteristics. We believe that the original approach used in this study may become useful for further and more comprehensive bioinformatic studies in the field of G-quadruplex genomics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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20 pages, 4283 KiB  
Article
Potential Effect of DIMBOA (2,4-Dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one) on Alleviating the Autotoxic Coumarin Stress in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) Seedlings
by Xiaolong Li, Shangli Shi, Xiaoyan Zhang, Changning Li, Huning Wang, Wenjuan Kang and Guoli Yin
Life 2022, 12(12), 2140; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12122140 - 19 Dec 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1414
Abstract
The allelopathic theory has garnered considerable attention in the field of agricultural production for its efficient plant protection, rapid crop yield increase, and scientific establishment of the crop rotation system. To study the effects of the main maize allelochemical DIMBOA (2,4-Dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one) on the [...] Read more.
The allelopathic theory has garnered considerable attention in the field of agricultural production for its efficient plant protection, rapid crop yield increase, and scientific establishment of the crop rotation system. To study the effects of the main maize allelochemical DIMBOA (2,4-Dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one) on the growth and development of alfalfa under autotoxic coumarin stress, we treated alfalfa seedlings with DIMBOA under coumarin stress and non-stress conditions in this study. Results show that 0.0342 mM coumarin significantly inhibited alfalfa seed germination percentage(Gp), germination potential(GP), radicle length, germ length, seeding height, and simple viability index (SVI), with decreases of 37.29%, 59.91%, 7.60%, 30.90%, 13.27%, and 45.70%, respectively. An amount of 0.6 mM DIMBOA could promote alfalfa seed Gp, GP, radicle length, germ length, seeding height, dry fresh ratio, and SVI, with increases of 12.38%, 23.91%, 48.69%, 48.65%, 48.68%, 295.12%, and 67.17%, respectively. However, the addition of DIMBOA under conditions of coumarin stress could effectively alleviate coumarin effects on alfalfa seedlings. Coumarin + DIMBOA treatment for 24 h mainly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROSs) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as soluble protein and soluble sugar, increasing some antioxidant enzyme activities and antioxidant content to alleviate the oxidative damage of alfalfa caused by coumarin stress. Administration of treatment for 72 h significantly promoted the morphological development of alfalfa seeding roots. Administration of treatment for 96 h significantly enhanced the photosynthetic capacity of alfalfa seedlings. The results of principal component analysis demonstrated that chlorophyll b(Chl b)and net photosynthetic rate(Pn) were the key indicators for coumarin + DIMBOA treatment to promote photosynthesis in alfalfa seedlings. Additionally, root length, mean root diameter, and root volume were the key indicators of root growth and development. Coumarin + DIMBOA treatment primarily increased catalase(CAT), peroxidase (POD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity and antioxidants(ASA) while reducing MDA and superoxide anion radical(O2•−). This study strongly suggested that DIMBOA can effectively improve the tolerance of alfalfa seedlings to coumarin stress through a combination of effects on root morphology, photosynthesis, and physiological indicators. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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24 pages, 7383 KiB  
Article
Ecophysiological and Biochemical Responses Depicting Seed Tolerance to Osmotic Stresses in Annual and Perennial Species of Halopeplis in a Frame of Global Warming
by Aysha Rasheed, Sarwat Ghulam Rasool, Pilar Soriano, Elena Estrelles, Bilquees Gul and Abdul Hameed
Life 2022, 12(12), 2020; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12122020 - 03 Dec 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1409
Abstract
Plant abundance and distribution are regulated by subtle changes in ecological factors, which are becoming more frequent under global climate change. Species with a higher tolerance to such changes, especially during early lifecycle stages, are highly likely to endure climate change. This study [...] Read more.
Plant abundance and distribution are regulated by subtle changes in ecological factors, which are becoming more frequent under global climate change. Species with a higher tolerance to such changes, especially during early lifecycle stages, are highly likely to endure climate change. This study compared the germination adaptability of Halopeplis amplexicaulis and H. perfoliata, which differ in life-form and grow in different environments. Optimal conditions, tolerances and the biochemical responses of seeds to osmotic stresses were examined. Seeds of H. perfoliata germinated in a wider range of temperature regimes and were more tolerant to osmotic stresses than H. amplexicaulis seeds. Neither NaCl nor PEG treatment invoked the H2O2 content in germinating seeds of the tested species. Consequently, unaltered, or even decreased activities of H2O2 detoxification enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants were observed in germinating seeds in response to the aforementioned stresses. High and comparable levels of recovery from isotonic treatments, alongside a lack of substantial oxidative damage indicated that the osmotic stress, rather than the ionic toxicity, may be responsible for the germination inhibition. Hence, rainy periods, linked to water availability, may act as a key determinant for germination and H. perfoliata could be less affected by global warming owing to better germinability under high temperatures compared with H. amplexicaulis. Such studies involving biochemical analysis coupled with the germination ecology of congeneric species, which differ in life-form and occurrence are scarce, therefore are important in understanding the impacts of global changes on species abundance/distribution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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17 pages, 4454 KiB  
Article
Salinity and Heavy Metal Tolerance, and Phytoextraction Potential of Ranunculus sceleratus Plants from a Sandy Coastal Beach
by Gederts Ievinsh, Zaiga Landorfa-Svalbe, Una Andersone-Ozola, Andis Karlsons and Anita Osvalde
Life 2022, 12(12), 1959; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12121959 - 23 Nov 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1603
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate tolerance to salinity and different heavy metals as well as the phytoextraction potential of Ranunculus sceleratus plants from a brackish coastal sandy beach habitat. Four separate experiments were performed with R. sceleratus plants in [...] Read more.
The aim of the present study was to evaluate tolerance to salinity and different heavy metals as well as the phytoextraction potential of Ranunculus sceleratus plants from a brackish coastal sandy beach habitat. Four separate experiments were performed with R. sceleratus plants in controlled conditions: (1) the effect of NaCl gradient on growth and ion accumulation, (2) the effect of different Na+ and K+ salts on growth and ion accumulation, (3) heavy metal tolerance and metal accumulation potential, (4) the effect of different forms of Pb salts (nitrate and acetate) on plant growth and Pb accumulation. A negative effect of NaCl on plant biomass was evident at 0.5 g L−1 Na+ and growth was inhibited by 44% at 10 g L−1 Na+, and this was associated with changes in biomass allocation. The maximum Na+ accumulation (90.8 g kg−1) was found in the stems of plants treated with 10 g kg−1 Na+. The type of anion determined the salinity tolerance of R. sceleratus plants, as Na+ and K+ salts with an identical anion component had a comparable effect on plant growth: nitrates strongly stimulated plant growth, and chloride treatment resulted in slight but significant growth reduction, but plants treated with nitrites and carbonates died within 4 and 5 weeks after the full treatment, respectively. The shoot growth of R. sceleratus plants was relatively insensitive to treatment with Mn, Cd and Zn in the form of sulphate salts, but Pb nitrate increased it. Hyperaccumulation threshold concentration values in the leaves of R. sceleratus were reached for Cd, Pb and Zn. R. sceleratus can be characterized as a shoot accumulator of heavy metals and a hyperaccumulator of Na+. A relatively short life cycle together with a high biomass accumulation rate makes R. sceleratus useful for dynamic constructed wetland systems aiming for the purification of concentrated wastewaters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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15 pages, 939 KiB  
Article
Alleviate the Drought Stress on Triticum aestivum L. Using the Algal Extracts of Sargassum latifolium and Corallina elongate Versus the Commercial Algal Products
by Khadiga Alharbi, Mohamed A. Amin, Mohamed A. Ismail, Mariam T. S. Ibrahim, Saad El-Din Hassan, Amr Fouda, Ahmed M. Eid and Hanan A. Said
Life 2022, 12(11), 1757; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12111757 - 01 Nov 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1528
Abstract
Herein, two seaweed extracts (Sargassum latifolium and Corallina elongate), and two commercial seaweed products (Canada power and Oligo-X) with a concentration of 5% were used to alleviate the drought stress on wheat plants. The extract of C. elongate had the highest [...] Read more.
Herein, two seaweed extracts (Sargassum latifolium and Corallina elongate), and two commercial seaweed products (Canada power and Oligo-X) with a concentration of 5% were used to alleviate the drought stress on wheat plants. The extract of C. elongate had the highest capacity to ameliorate the deleterious effects of water scarcity followed by S. latifolium and the commercial products. The drought stress reduced wheat shoots length and the contents of pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoids), carbohydrates, and proteins. While the highest increment in the total carbohydrates and protein contents of the wheat shoot after two stages, 37-and 67-days-old, were noted in drought-stressed plants treated with C. elongate extract with values of (34.6% and 22.8%) and (51.9% and 39.5%), respectively, compared to unstressed plants. Decreasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, peroxidase, superoxidase dismutase, and polyphenol oxidase in drought-stressed plants treated with algal extracts indicated amelioration of the response actions. Analysis of phytohormones in wheat plants exhibited increasing GA3 and IAA contents with percentages of (20.3–13.8%) and (72.7–25%), respectively. Interestingly, all morphological and metabolic characteristics of yield were improved due to the algal treatments compared with untreated drought-stressed plants. Overall, the algal extracts, especially those from seaweed of C. elongate, could represent a sustainable candidate to overcome the damage effects of water deficiency in the wheat plant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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18 pages, 5233 KiB  
Article
Similar Responses of Relatively Salt-Tolerant Plants to Na and K during Chloride Salinity: Comparison of Growth, Water Content and Ion Accumulation
by Gederts Ievinsh, Una Andersone-Ozola and Astra Jēkabsone
Life 2022, 12(10), 1577; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12101577 - 11 Oct 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1180
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to compare changes in growth, ion accumulation and tissue water content in relatively salt-tolerant plant taxa—Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima, Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris var. cicla, Cochlearia officinalis, Mentha aquatica and Plantago maritima [...] Read more.
The aim of the present study was to compare changes in growth, ion accumulation and tissue water content in relatively salt-tolerant plant taxa—Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima, Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris var. cicla, Cochlearia officinalis, Mentha aquatica and Plantago maritima—as a result of NaCl and KCl salinity in controlled conditions. Similar growth responses to Na+ and K+ salinity in a form of chloride salts were found for all model plants, including growth stimulation at low concentrations, an increase in water content in leaves, and growth inhibition at high salinity for less salt-resistant taxa. All plant taxa were cultivated in soil except M. aquatica, which was cultivated in hydroponics. While the morphological responses of B. vulgaris subsp. vulgaris var. cicla, B. vulgaris subsp. maritima and P. maritima plants to NaCl and KCl were rather similar, C. officinalis plants tended to perform worse when treated with KCl, but the opposite was evident for M. aquatica. Plants treated with KCl accumulated higher concentrations of K+ in comparison to the accumulation of Na+ in plants treated with equimolar concentrations of NaCl. KCl-treated plants also had higher tissue levels of electrical conductivity than NaCl-treated plants. Based on the results of the present study, it seems that both positive and negative effects of Na+ and K+ on plant growth were due to unspecific ionic effects of monovalent cations or/and the specific effect of Cl. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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18 pages, 2891 KiB  
Article
Climate Stressors on Growth, Yield, and Functional Biochemistry of two Brassica Species, Kale and Mustard
by Akanksha Sehgal, Kambham Raja Reddy, Charles Hunt Walne, T. Casey Barickman, Skyler Brazel, Daryl Chastain and Wei Gao
Life 2022, 12(10), 1546; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12101546 - 06 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1710
Abstract
Due to climate change, the attainment of global food security is facing serious challenges in meeting the growing food demand. Abiotic stresses are the foremost limiting factors for agricultural productivity. However, not much information is available on the effect of multiple abiotic stresses [...] Read more.
Due to climate change, the attainment of global food security is facing serious challenges in meeting the growing food demand. Abiotic stresses are the foremost limiting factors for agricultural productivity. However, not much information is available on the effect of multiple abiotic stresses on the morphological and biochemical aspects of kale and mustard. Therefore, an experiment was designed to study the effects of UV-B radiation, CO2 concentration, and high temperature on the growth, yield, and biochemistry of two Brassica species, namely B. oleracea L. var. acephala Winterbor F1 (hybrid kale) and B. juncea var. Green wave O.G. (mustard greens), which were grown under optimal nutrients and soil moisture conditions in soil–plant–atmosphere–research (SPAR) units. Two levels of UV-B radiation (0 and 10 kJ m−2 d−1), two concentrations of CO2 (420 and 720 ppm), and two different temperature treatments (25/17 °C and 35/27 °C) were imposed 12 days after sowing (DAS). Several morphological and biochemical parameters were measured at harvest (40 DAS) in both species. All the traits declined considerably under individual and multi-stress conditions in both species except under elevated CO2 levels, which had a positive impact. Marketable fresh weight decreased by 64% and 58% in kale and mustard plants, respectively, growing under UV-B treatment. A slight increase in the chlorophyll content was observed in both species under the UV-B treatment alone and in combination with high temperature and elevated CO2. Understanding the impacts of high temperature, CO2, and UV-B radiation treatments on leafy vegetables, such as kale and mustard, can help to improve existing varieties to enhance resilience towards environmental stresses while simultaneously improving yield, morphology, and biochemistry in plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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16 pages, 1374 KiB  
Article
Alleviation of Cadmium Stress by Silicon Supplementation in Peas by the Modulation of Morpho-Physio-Biochemical Variables and Health Risk Assessment
by Tahira Batool, Sabiha Javied, Kamran Ashraf, Khawar Sultan, Qamar uz Zaman and Fasih Ullah Haider
Life 2022, 12(10), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12101479 - 23 Sep 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1479
Abstract
Agricultural soil quality degradation by potentially toxic elements, specifically cadmium (Cd), poses a significant threat to plant growth and the health of humans. However, the supplementation of various salts of silicon (Si) to mitigate the adverse effect of Cd on the productivity of [...] Read more.
Agricultural soil quality degradation by potentially toxic elements, specifically cadmium (Cd), poses a significant threat to plant growth and the health of humans. However, the supplementation of various salts of silicon (Si) to mitigate the adverse effect of Cd on the productivity of peas (Pisum sativum L.) is less known. Therefore, the present investigation was designed to evaluate the exogenous application at various levels (0, 0.50, 1.00 and 1.50 mM) of silicate compounds (sodium and potassium silicates) on pea growth, gaseous exchange, antioxidant enzyme activities and the potential health risk of Cd stress (20 mg kg−1 of soil) using CdCl2. The findings of the study showed that Cd stress significantly reduced growth, the fresh and dry biomass of roots and shoots and chlorophyll content. In addition, electrolyte leakage, antioxidant enzymes and the content of Cd in plant tissues were enhanced in Cd-induced stressed plants. An application of Si enhanced the development of stressed plants by modulating the growth of fresh and dry biomass, improving the chlorophyll contents and decreasing leakage from the plasma membrane. Furthermore, Si addition performed a vital function in relieving the effects of Cd stress by stimulating antioxidant potential. Hence, a significant level of metal protection was achieved by 1.00 mM of potassium silicate application under the Cd levels related to stress conditions, pointing to the fact that the Si concentration required for plant growth under Cd stress surpassed that which was required for general growth, enzymatic antioxidants regulation and limiting toxic metal uptake in plant tissues under normal conditions. The findings of this research work provide a feasible approach to reduce Cd toxicity in peas and to manage the entry and accumulation of Cd in food crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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10 pages, 2343 KiB  
Article
Effects of Cadmium Stress on Root and Root Border Cells of Some Vegetable Species with Different Types of Root Meristem
by Yingming Feng, Huanxiu Li, Xianshi Zhang, Xuewen Li, Jie Zhang, Lei Shi, Xingyun Chen, Wei Nong, Changquan Wang, Sergey Shabala and Min Yu
Life 2022, 12(9), 1401; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12091401 - 09 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1549
Abstract
Cadmium is one of the most toxic heavy metals and can be easily absorbed by plants, affecting root growth. Root border cells (RBCs), that are located in the periphery of the root cap and originate from the root cap meristem, represent a convenient [...] Read more.
Cadmium is one of the most toxic heavy metals and can be easily absorbed by plants, affecting root growth. Root border cells (RBCs), that are located in the periphery of the root cap and originate from the root cap meristem, represent a convenient tool to study the toxic effects of Cd on root performance. In this work, vegetables with contrasting types of root apical meristem (RAM) organizations were used. The open RAM organizations included pea and cucumber, and the closed RAM organizations included tomato, chili, and eggplant. The number of RBCs were significantly higher in the species possessing open RAM organization: pea (11,330 cells per root) > cucumber (8200) > tomato (2480) > eggplant (1830) > chili (1320). The same trend was observed for cell viability: pea (61%) > cucumber (59%) > tomato (49%) > eggplant (44%) > chili (42%). Pea and cucumber had higher relative radicle elongation rates and a lower increase in stress-induced accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), making them more resistant to Cd stress than the vegetables with close RAM organization. Under Cd treatment, the number and viability of RBCs in vegetables with both types of RAM organization were significantly decreased. However, the decreasing ratio of the number and viability of RBCs in pea and cucumber was higher than in tomato, chili, and eggplant. Taken together, the plants with the open-type RAM are more tolerant to Cd, and it can be speculated that the cadmium tolerance of the vegetables may be correlated with the number and viability of RBCs in response to cadmium stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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19 pages, 5257 KiB  
Article
Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis of Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) Seed Pretreatment with MgSO4 in Response to Salinity Stress
by Wei Ren, Li Chen, Qian Wang and Yanping Ren
Life 2022, 12(6), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12060921 - 20 Jun 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2122
Abstract
Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is a salt-tolerant crop that can withstand high salinity levels without showing signs of harm to the plant. However, the plant is more prone to salinity stress at the germination stage and a poor germination as well [...] Read more.
Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is a salt-tolerant crop that can withstand high salinity levels without showing signs of harm to the plant. However, the plant is more prone to salinity stress at the germination stage and a poor germination as well as poor crop stand lead to a weak productivity. It is possible to obtain a comprehensive picture of the cotton seedling germination and establishment against salt stress by examining dynamic changes in the transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles. The reported study employed a pretreatment of cotton seeds by soaking them in 0.2% Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO4) solution at room temperature for 4, 8, and 12 h. The analysis of variance based on the studied traits emergence rate, above and underground plant parts’ fresh weight measured, displayed significant differences of the three treatments compared with the control. A total of 28,801 and 264 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were discovered to code for biological processes such as response to salt stress, cellular response to salt stress, abscisic acid receptor PYR/PYL, regulation of seed growth and germination, and auxin-activated signaling pathways. A large amount of ethylene-responsive transcription factors (ERF) was identified (1235) as differentially expressed, followed by bHLH (252), WRKY (96), MYB (202), GATA (81), RABA (64), DIVARICATA (28), and MADs-box (26) in treated seedling samples. Functional enrichment analysis revealed the significant roles in the hormones and signal transduction, carbohydrates metabolism, and biosynthesis of amino acids, promoting salt stress tolerance. Our results indicated positive effects of MgSO4 at 4 h treatment on seedling germination and growth, seemingly by activating certain growth-regulating enzymes (auxins, gibberellins, jasmonates, abscisic acid, and salicylic acid) and metabolites (phenolic acids, flavonoids, and akaloids). Such pretreatment of MgSO4 on seeds would be beneficial in future cotton management under saline conditions to enhance good crop stand and productivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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15 pages, 3154 KiB  
Article
Metabolic Insight into Cold Stress Response in Two Contrasting Maize Lines
by Tao Yu, Jianguo Zhang, Jingsheng Cao, Xin Li, Sinan Li, Changhua Liu and Lishan Wang
Life 2022, 12(2), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12020282 - 14 Feb 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2291
Abstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) is sensitive to a minor decrease in temperature at early growth stages, resulting in deteriorated growth at later stages. Although there are significant variations in maize germplasm in response to cold stress, the metabolic responses as stress tolerance [...] Read more.
Maize (Zea mays L.) is sensitive to a minor decrease in temperature at early growth stages, resulting in deteriorated growth at later stages. Although there are significant variations in maize germplasm in response to cold stress, the metabolic responses as stress tolerance mechanisms are largely unknown. Therefore, this study aimed at providing insight into the metabolic responses under cold stress at the early growth stages of maize. Two inbred lines, tolerant (B144) and susceptible (Q319), were subjected to cold stress at the seedling stage, and their corresponding metabolic profiles were explored. The study identified differentially accumulated metabolites in both cultivars in response to induced cold stress with nine core conserved cold-responsive metabolites. Guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate was detected as a potential biomarker metabolite to differentiate cold tolerant and sensitive maize genotypes. Furthermore, Quercetin-3-O-(2″′-p-coumaroyl)sophoroside-7-O-glucoside, Phloretin, Phloretin-2′-O-glucoside, Naringenin-7-O-Rutinoside, L-Lysine, L-phenylalanine, L-Glutamine, Sinapyl alcohol, and Feruloyltartaric acid were regulated explicitly in B144 and could be important cold-tolerance metabolites. These results increase our understanding of cold-mediated metabolic responses in maize that can be further utilized to enhance cold tolerance in this significant crop. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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Review

Jump to: Research

12 pages, 620 KiB  
Review
More Than a Diamine Oxidase Inhibitor: L-Aminoguanidine Modulates Polyamine-Related Abiotic Stress Responses of Plants
by Zoltán Márton Köhler and Ágnes Szepesi
Life 2023, 13(3), 747; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13030747 - 09 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1378
Abstract
L-aminoguanidine (AG) is an inhibitor frequently used for investigating plant abiotic stress responses; however, its exact mode of action is not well understood. Many studies used this compound as a specific diamine oxidase inhibitor, whereas other studies used it for reducing nitric oxide [...] Read more.
L-aminoguanidine (AG) is an inhibitor frequently used for investigating plant abiotic stress responses; however, its exact mode of action is not well understood. Many studies used this compound as a specific diamine oxidase inhibitor, whereas other studies used it for reducing nitric oxide (NO) production. Recent studies suggest its antiglycation effect; however, this remains elusive in plants. This review summarises our current knowledge about different targets of AG in plants. Our recommendation is to use AG as a modulator of polyamine-related mechanisms rather than a specific inhibitor. In the future overall investigation is needed to decipher the exact mechanisms of AG. More careful application of AG could give more insight into plant abiotic stress responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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27 pages, 757 KiB  
Review
Responses to Drought Stress in Poplar: What Do We Know and What Can We Learn?
by Laura Rosso, Simone Cantamessa, Sara Bergante, Chiara Biselli, Agostino Fricano, Pier Mario Chiarabaglio, Massimo Gennaro, Giuseppe Nervo, Francesca Secchi and Andrea Carra
Life 2023, 13(2), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13020533 - 15 Feb 2023
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3209
Abstract
Poplar (Populus spp.) is a high-value crop for wood and biomass production and a model organism for tree physiology and genomics. The early release, in 2006, of the complete genome sequence of P. trichocarpa was followed by a wealth of studies that [...] Read more.
Poplar (Populus spp.) is a high-value crop for wood and biomass production and a model organism for tree physiology and genomics. The early release, in 2006, of the complete genome sequence of P. trichocarpa was followed by a wealth of studies that significantly enriched our knowledge of complex pathways inherent to woody plants, such as lignin biosynthesis and secondary cell wall deposition. Recently, in the attempt to cope with the challenges posed by ongoing climate change, fundamental studies and breeding programs with poplar have gradually shifted their focus to address the responses to abiotic stresses, particularly drought. Taking advantage from a set of modern genomic and phenotyping tools, these studies are now shedding light on important processes, including embolism formation (the entry and expansion of air bubbles in the xylem) and repair, the impact of drought stress on biomass yield and quality, and the long-term effects of drought events. In this review, we summarize the status of the research on the molecular bases of the responses to drought in poplar. We highlight how this knowledge can be exploited to select more tolerant genotypes and how it can be translated to other tree species to improve our understanding of forest dynamics under rapidly changing environmental conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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13 pages, 667 KiB  
Review
Different Tactics of Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles, Homeostasis Ions, and Phytohormones as Regulators and Adaptatively Parameters to Alleviate the Adverse Effects of Salinity Stress on Plants
by Mostafa Ahmed, Kincső Decsi and Zoltán Tóth
Life 2023, 13(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13010073 - 27 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1706
Abstract
A major abiotic barrier to crop yield and profitability is salt stress, which is most prevalent in arid and semi-arid locations worldwide. Salinity tolerance is complicated and multifaceted, including a variety of mechanisms, and to adapt to salt stress, plants have constructed a [...] Read more.
A major abiotic barrier to crop yield and profitability is salt stress, which is most prevalent in arid and semi-arid locations worldwide. Salinity tolerance is complicated and multifaceted, including a variety of mechanisms, and to adapt to salt stress, plants have constructed a network of biological and molecular processes. An expanding field of agricultural research that combines physiological measures with molecular techniques has sought to better understand how plants deploy tolerance to salinity at various levels. As the first line of defense against oxidative damage brought on by salt stress, host plants synthesize and accumulate several osmoprotectants. They (osmoprotectants) and other phytohormones were shown to serve a variety of protective roles for salt stress tolerance. Intrinsic root growth inhibition, which could be a protection mechanism under salty conditions, may be dependent on phytohormone-mediated salt signaling pathways. This article may also make it easier for scientists to determine the precise molecular processes underlying the ZnO-NPs-based salinity tolerance response for some plants. ZnO-NPs are considered to improve plant growth and photosynthetic rates while also positively regulating salt tolerance. When plants are under osmotic stress, their administration to zinc nanoparticles may also affect the activity of antioxidant enzymes. So, ZnO-NPs could be a promising method, side by side with the released osmoprotectants and phytohormones, to relieve salt stress in plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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25 pages, 1178 KiB  
Review
Salicylic Acid, a Multifaceted Hormone, Combats Abiotic Stresses in Plants
by Junli Liu, Gaoyang Qiu, Chen Liu, Hua Li, Xiaodong Chen, Qinglin Fu, Yicheng Lin and Bin Guo
Life 2022, 12(6), 886; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12060886 - 14 Jun 2022
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 3021
Abstract
In recent decades, many new and exciting findings have paved the way to the better understanding of plant responses in various environmental changes. Some major areas are focused on role of phytohormone during abiotic stresses. Salicylic acid (SA) is one such plant hormone [...] Read more.
In recent decades, many new and exciting findings have paved the way to the better understanding of plant responses in various environmental changes. Some major areas are focused on role of phytohormone during abiotic stresses. Salicylic acid (SA) is one such plant hormone that has been implicated in processes not limited to plant growth, development, and responses to environmental stress. This review summarizes the various roles and functions of SA in mitigating abiotic stresses to plants, including heating, chilling, salinity, metal toxicity, drought, ultraviolet radiation, etc. Consistent with its critical roles in plant abiotic tolerance, this review identifies the gaps in the literature with regard to the complex signalling network between SA and reactive oxygen species, ABA, Ca2+, and nitric oxide. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms underlying signalling networks that control development and stress responses in plants and underscore prospects for future research on SA concerning abiotic-stressed plants are also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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12 pages, 1140 KiB  
Review
cAMP Is a Promising Regulatory Molecule for Plant Adaptation to Heat Stress
by Shuang Liang, Jinfeng Sun, Yanmin Luo, Shanshan Lv, Jiajia Chen, Yanpei Liu and Xiuli Hu
Life 2022, 12(6), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12060885 - 14 Jun 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2123
Abstract
With gradual warming or increased frequency and magnitude of high temperature, heat stress adversely affects plant growth and eventually reduces plant productivity and quality. Plants have evolved complex mechanisms to sense and respond to heat stress which are crucial to avoiding cell damage [...] Read more.
With gradual warming or increased frequency and magnitude of high temperature, heat stress adversely affects plant growth and eventually reduces plant productivity and quality. Plants have evolved complex mechanisms to sense and respond to heat stress which are crucial to avoiding cell damage and maintaining cellular homeostasis. Recently, 33″,55″-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) has been proved to be an important signaling molecule participating in plant adaptation to heat stress by affecting multi-level regulatory networks. Significant progress has been made on many fronts of cAMP research, particularly in understanding the downstream signaling events that culminate in the activation of stress-responsive genes, mRNA translation initiation, vesicle trafficking, the ubiquitin-proteasome system, autophagy, HSPs-assisted protein processing, and cellular ion homeostasis to prevent heat-related damage and to preserve cellular and metabolic functions. In this present review, we summarize recent works on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of cAMP in plant response to heat stress which could be useful in finding thermotolerant key genes to develop heat stress-resistant varieties and that have the potential for utilizing cAMP as a chemical regulator to improve plant thermotolerance. New directions for future studies on cAMP are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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14 pages, 1867 KiB  
Review
Insights into the Response of Perennial Ryegrass to Abiotic Stress: Underlying Survival Strategies and Adaptation Mechanisms
by Cuicui Miao, Yuting Zhang, Xuechun Bai and Tao Qin
Life 2022, 12(6), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12060860 - 08 Jun 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2290
Abstract
Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is an important turfgrass and gramineous forage widely grown in temperate regions around the world. However, its perennial nature leads to the inevitable exposure of perennial ryegrass to various environmental stresses on a seasonal basis and from [...] Read more.
Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is an important turfgrass and gramineous forage widely grown in temperate regions around the world. However, its perennial nature leads to the inevitable exposure of perennial ryegrass to various environmental stresses on a seasonal basis and from year to year. Like other plants, perennial ryegrass has evolved sophisticated mechanisms to make appropriate adjustments in growth and development in order to adapt to the stress environment at both the physiological and molecular levels. A thorough understanding of the mechanisms of perennial ryegrass response to abiotic stresses is crucial for obtaining superior stress-tolerant varieties through molecular breeding. Over the past decades, studies of perennial ryegrass at the molecular and genetic levels have revealed a lot of useful information to understand the mechanisms of perennial ryegrass adaptation to an adverse environment. Unfortunately, molecular mechanisms by which perennial ryegrass adapts to abiotic stresses have not been reviewed thus far. In this review, we summarize the recent works on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of perennial ryegrass response to the major abiotic stresses (i.e., drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures) and discuss new directions for future studies. Such knowledge will provide valuable information for molecular breeding in perennial ryegrass to improve stress resistance and promote the sustainability of agriculture and the environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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14 pages, 822 KiB  
Review
Genetic Mechanisms of Cold Signaling in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
by Qiangbo Liu, Xiang Zhang, Ying Hua Su and Xian Sheng Zhang
Life 2022, 12(5), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12050700 - 07 May 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2697
Abstract
Cold stress is a major environmental factor affecting the growth, development, and productivity of various crop species. With the current trajectory of global climate change, low temperatures are becoming more frequent and can significantly decrease crop yield. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is [...] Read more.
Cold stress is a major environmental factor affecting the growth, development, and productivity of various crop species. With the current trajectory of global climate change, low temperatures are becoming more frequent and can significantly decrease crop yield. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the first domesticated crop and is the most popular cereal crop in the world. Because of a lack of systematic research on cold signaling pathways and gene regulatory networks, the underlying molecular mechanisms of cold signal transduction in wheat are poorly understood. This study reviews recent progress in wheat, including the ICE-CBF-COR signaling pathway under cold stress and the effects of cold stress on hormonal pathways, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and epigenetic processes and elements. This review also highlights possible strategies for improving cold tolerance in wheat. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)
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