Exploring the vital role of phytohormones and plant growth regulators in orchestrating plant immunity

• Published in: Physiological and molecular plant pathology 2024-09, Vol.133, p.102359, Article 102359
• Main Authors: Shafqat, Ayesha, Abbas, Sonia, Ambreen, Madieha, Siddiqa Bhatti, Ayesha, kausar, Humaira, Gull, Tabassum
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biotic stress; Hormones; Immune response; JA crosstalk; Phytohormones
• ISSN: 0885-5765
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pmpp.2024.102359

Phytohormones and plant growth regulators play pivotal roles in orchestrating plant immunity, serving as crucial signaling molecules that mediate responses to various stressors. This review explores their diverse functions in regulating plant defense mechanisms, encompassing both local and systemic responses. Salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, ethylene, and auxins are among the key phytohormones that modulate various facets of plant immunity, including pathogen recognition, signal transduction pathways, and the activation of defense-related genes. Additionally, plant growth regulators such as cytokinins and gibberellins influence immune responses through complex regulatory networks. In addition to phytohormones, signaling molecules like proline, hydrogen sulfide, nitric oxide, and melatonin also involves in protecting plants against fungal or bacterial pathogens. Understanding the intricate interplay between phytohormones and plant growth regulators is essential for developing sustainable strategies to enhance plant resilience against pathogens, thereby ensuring global food security and agricultural sustainability. This review consolidates current knowledge and identifies emerging trends in the field, underscoring the importance of further research to harness the full potential of these regulatory molecules in plant immunity. This intricate network of phytohormones and signaling molecules highlights the multifaceted nature of plant defense mechanisms, offering avenues for further exploration and exploitation in enhancing crop resilience and productivity. •How pathogen attack triggers immunity in plant defense system.•Role of phytohoromones in providing protection against biotic stress.•Cross talk between hormones especially Jasmonic acid (JA) with other hormones.•Various signaling molecules and plant defense mechanism.