How do plants fight climate stress? Discover the secret of plant hormones!

Climate change is putting field crops under pressure, but plants have a secret ally: phytohormones! These chemical compounds help plants adapt to adverse conditions such as drought, salinity, and extreme heat. Recent studies have shown that external applications of hormones like cytokinins, abscisic acid, and gibberellic acid can maintain photosynthesis, stabilize cell membranes, and reduce stress damage. For example, in wheat, these hormones reduce lipid peroxidation and ion accumulation under saline stress. Additionally, ethylene inhibitors can slow down leaf senescence, extending the grain-filling period. However, effects on yield and quality are not always guaranteed. This study explores the molecular mechanisms of phytohormones and emphasizes the need for further research to optimize the use of these compounds in open-field conditions.

Phytohormones, or plant hormones, are signaling molecules that regulate growth, development, and stress responses in plants. Cytokinins (CKs) promote cell division and delay senescence, while abscisic acid (ABA) is involved in water stress responses. Gibberellic acid (GA) regulates cell elongation and germination. Ethylene inhibitors block the production of this hormone, which accelerates leaf senescence. Exogenous applications of these hormones can improve abiotic stress tolerance, but results vary depending on the species and environmental conditions. Future studies should focus on optimal dosages and application timings to maximize agronomic benefits.