Abiotic Stress Elicitors: Mechanisms and Responses to Drought, Salinity, and Temperature
摘要
Environmental stresses like drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures present major obstacles to worldwide agriculture, negatively impacting plant growth, development, and yield. In reaction to these challenges, plants have evolved complex defense strategies, which are frequently activated and strengthened by external compounds referred to as elicitors. Abiotic stress elicitors, including chemical and physical stimuli, play a vital role in activating specific plant pathways that improve tolerance to adverse environmental conditions. This chapter explores the types of abiotic elicitors, both natural and synthetic, and their underlying mechanisms in enhancing plant responses to drought, salinity, and temperature stress. It also examines how elicitors induce protective mechanisms, such as the accumulation of osmoprotectants, activation of antioxidant defense systems, and regulation of stress-responsive genes. By delving into the molecular processes associated with elicitors, this chapter highlights the potential of these compounds to be applied in climate-smart agriculture to mitigate the negative impacts of abiotic stresses. The use of elicitors offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to enhancing crop resilience, reducing the need for chemical inputs, and ensuring food security in a changing climate.