Epigenetic Regulation of Nitrogen Signaling and Adaptation in Plants

Nitrogen (N) is a crucial nutrient that plays a significant role in enhancing crop yield. Its availability, including both supply and deficiency, serves as a crucial signal for plant development. However, excessive N use in agriculture leads to environmental and economic issues. Enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is, therefore, essential to minimize negative impacts. Prior studies have investigated the genetic factors involved in N responses and the process of low-nitrogen (LN) adaptation. In this review, we discuss recent advances in understanding how epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and small RNA, participate in the regulation of N response and LN adaptation. We highlight the importance of decoding the epigenome at various levels to accelerate the functional study of how plants respond to N availability. Understanding the epigenetic control of N signaling and adaptation can lead to new strategies to improve NUE and enhance crop productivity sustainably.

Automated summary

Nitrogen is a crucial nutrient for enhancing crop yield, but excessive use in agriculture leads to environmental and economic issues. This review focuses on recent advances in understanding the role of epigenetic modifications in nitrogen response and low-nitrogen adaptation. Decoding the epigenome at various levels is highlighted as important for accelerating the study of plant response to nitrogen availability. Understanding the epigenetic control of nitrogen signaling and adaptation can lead to new strategies for improving nitrogen use efficiency and enhancing sustainable crop productivity.