Molecular Links between Flowering and Abiotic Stress Response: A Focus on Poaceae

Extreme temperatures, drought, salinity and soil pollution are the most common types of abiotic stresses crops can encounter in fields; these variations represent a general warning to plant productivity and survival, being more harmful when in combination. Plant response to such conditions involves the activation of several molecular mechanisms, starting from perception to signaling, transcriptional reprogramming and protein modifications. This can influence the plant's life cycle and development to different extents. Flowering developmental transition is very sensitive to environmental stresses, being critical to reproduction and to agricultural profitability for crops. The Poacee family contains some of the most widespread domesticated plants, such as wheat, barley and rice, which are commonly referred to as cereals and represent a primary food source. In cultivated Poaceae, stress-induced modifications of flowering time and development cause important yield losses by directly affecting seed production. At the molecular level, this reflects important changes in gene expression and protein activity. Here, we present a comprehensive overview on the latest research investigating the molecular pathways linking flowering control to osmotic and temperature extreme conditions in agronomically relevant monocotyledons. This aims to provide hints for biotechnological strategies that can ensure agricultural stability in ever-changing climatic conditions.

Automated summary

Extreme temperatures, drought, salinity, and soil pollution are common abiotic stresses that can negatively impact plant productivity and survival in fields. Plant responses to these stresses involve various molecular mechanisms, including perception, signaling, transcriptional reprogramming, and protein modifications. Flowering development is particularly vulnerable to environmental stress, as it affects reproduction and crop profitability. The Poaceae family, comprising important crops like wheat, barley, and rice, experiences stress-induced changes in flowering time and development, leading to yield losses. Understanding the molecular pathways linking flowering control to extreme environmental conditions in monocots can provide insights for biotechnological strategies to ensure agricultural stability in changing climates.