Peptide Elicitors for Defense Against Abiotic Stress
摘要
Peptide elicitors have emerged as critical components in enhancing plant defense mechanisms against abiotic stress. These small signaling molecules, which can be either endogenous (plant-derived) or exogenous (synthetically and microbially derived), play a pivotal role in stress perception, signal transduction, and adaptive responses. Peptide elicitors contribute to abiotic stress tolerance through various mechanisms, including receptor activation, hormonal cross talk (abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA), and ethylene), and stress-specific responses. They regulate osmoprotectant production under drought stress, maintain ionic homeostasis in saline conditions, and induce heat shock proteins (HSPs) for thermal stress tolerance. Additionally, they activate cold-responsive genes (COR) for freezing stress adaptation, chelate heavy metals to reduce toxicity, and enhance antioxidant enzyme activity to combat oxidative stress. The practical applications of peptide elicitors in agriculture are also discussed, focusing on foliar sprays, root applications, and seed priming as innovative strategies for improving crop resilience. The integration of peptide-based treatments with biostimulants and fertilizers offers promising avenues for sustainable agricultural practices. Despite their potential, challenges such as cost-effectiveness, stability, and large-scale application remain key concerns. This chapter explores the chemical nature, classification, and structural diversity of peptide elicitors and provides insights into the role of peptide elicitors in plant defense against abiotic stress, emphasizing their potential in improving crop productivity and stress resilience. Future research directions, including advancements in peptide engineering and formulation strategies, will be essential for optimizing their agricultural use.