Effects of Plant Hormones, Metal Ions, Salinity, Sugar, and Chemicals Pollution on Glucosinolate Biosynthesis in Cruciferous Plant

Cruciferous vegetable crops are grown widely around the world, which supply a multitude of health-related micronutrients, phytochemicals, and antioxidant compounds. Glucosinolates (GSLs) are specialized metabolites found widely in cruciferous vegetables, which are not only related to flavor formation but also have anti-cancer, disease-resistance, and insect-resistance properties. The content and components of GSLs in the Cruciferae are not only related to genotypes and environmental factors but also are influenced by hormones, plant growth regulators, and mineral elements. This review discusses the effects of different exogenous substances on the GSL content and composition, and analyzes the molecular mechanism by which these substances regulate the biosynthesis of GSLs. Based on the current research status, future research directions are also proposed.

Automated summary

Cruciferous vegetables are rich in glucosinolates (GSLs), which not only contribute to flavor formation but also possess anti-cancer, disease-resistance, and insect-resistance properties. The content and composition of GSLs are influenced by genotypes, environmental factors, hormones, plant growth regulators, and mineral elements. This review discusses the effects of exogenous substances on GSLs and proposes future research directions.