Epigenomics in stress tolerance of plants under the climate change

Abstract

During development and environmental stresses, plants experience genome-wide epigenetic alterations that are typically associated with differentiation in transcriptional gene expression.An epigenome is the aggregate of a cell's biochemical modi cations in its nuclear DNA, post-translational changes in histones, and differences in non-coding RNAs' biogenesis. Differences in gene expression that take place without any change in the underlying nucleotide sequence are frequently caused by these changes. Chromatin remodelling that can epigenetically dictate particular transcriptional outputs and change the function/activity of the genome include post-transcriptional histone modi cations, variations in histone proteins, DNA methylation, and activity of non-coding RNA. Epigenetic marks have a signi cant impact on how plants respond to environmental challenges, and recent developments in the eld of major crop "-omics" have made it easier to identify these marks. The phenotypic plasticity of the organism is impacted by the epigenomic alterations, which are dynamic in response to any endogenous and/or external stimuli. After the stress is withdrawn, both changes in gene expression and epigenetic alterations may quickly return to their pre-stress states. Few epigenetic alterations, which have been related to acclimatisation, adaptation, and the evolutionary process, might be retained, though. For better use of genetic resources, epigenome engineering may be used to improve plants' ability to withstand stress. In this chapter, we have outlined recent epigenetic studies that may be crucial for enhancing crop resilience and adaptation to environmental changes, ultimately resulting in the development of stable climate-smart crops.

Mechanisms of Plant Epigenetic Regulation in Response to Plant Stress: Recent Discoveries and Implications

“…Epigenetic regulation of secondary metabolism: Plants have developed a sophisticated defense mechanism that utilizes secondary metabolites, such as phenolic compounds and alkaloids, against potential threats from pathogens and herbivores. Emerging research suggests epigenetic regulation also plays a crucial role in producing these compounds [ 154 , 155 , 156 ]. Specifically, studies demonstrate that DM and histone modifications improve the gene modification that produces anthocyanins, a particular phenolic compound that safeguards plants from UV radiation and oxidative stress [ 44 , 154 ].…”

“…Epigenetic regulation of stem cell maintenance: Stem cells are essential for the germination of plants and stress response, and recent research has shown that epigenetic regulation is included in stem cell maintenance. For example, studies have found that DM and HM are involved in the influence of stem cell fate decisions in Arabidopsis thaliana [ 12 , 25 , 156 ].…”

“…Epigenetic inheritance transfers modifications across generations without DNA sequence changes [ 160 ], and it aids stress adaptation in different plant species. According to Schmid et al [ 161 ], Herrera et al [ 162 ], and Springer and Schmitz [ 163 ], plants can decide what information to keep or discard, and when exposed to stress, plants can create epigenetic stress memories, also called epialleles, which can be temporary or permanent [ 14 , 156 ]. These memories carry on beyond the initial stressor and can even be passed down to future generations, facilitating plant adaptability and evolution [ 5 , 164 ].…”

“…While most studies on epigenetic mechanisms have been conducted in Arabidopsis , researchers are increasingly interested in investigating epigenetics in other plants to breed climate-resistant crops and adapt to changing climates [ 124 , 148 , 168 ]. Climate stress conditions can severely impact crop yield and quality, leading to significant economic losses [ 156 ]. Genetic engineers can introduce genes encoding enzymes involved in epigenetic modifications into crop plants.…”

Role of Epigenetic Factors in Response to Stress and Establishment of Somatic Memory of Stress Exposure in Plants

“…Many types of ncRNAs have been implemented in the direct or indirect regulation of various mechanisms of stress response and acclimation [133]. In this review, only the aspects of the involvement of siRNAs in RdDM will be covered, as this mechanism is the most likely to be involved in the establishment of somatic memory of stress exposures.…”