Trends in the Potential of Stilbenes to Improve Plant Stress Tolerance: Insights of Plant Defense Mechanisms in Response to Biotic and Abiotic Stressors

Abstract

Stilbenes belong to the naturally synthesized plant phytoalexins, produced de novo in response to various biotic and abiotic stressors. The importance of stilbenes in plant resistance to stress and disease is of increasing interest. However, the defense mechanisms and potential of stilbenes to improve plant stress tolerance have not been thoroughly reviewed. This work overviewed the pentose phosphate pathway, glycolysis pathway, shikimate pathway, and phenylalanine pathway occurred in the synthesis of stilbenes when plants are subjected to biotic and abiotic stresses. The positive implications and underlying mechanisms regarding defensive properties of stilbenes were demonstrated. Ten biomimetic chemosynthesis methods can underpin the potential of stilbenes to improve plant stress tolerance. The prospects for the application of stilbenes in agriculture, food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals industries are anticipated. It is hoped that some of the detailed ideas and practices may contribute to the development of stilbene-related products and improvement of plant resistance breeding.

Combined metabolomics and transcriptomics reveal the secondary metabolite networks in different growth stages of Bletilla striata (Thunb.) Reichb.f.

“…Furthermore, these secondary metabolites exhibit diverse biological functions and play a pivotal role in regulating plant physiology, enhancing plant adaptability to physical environments, fortifying resistance against natural enemies, as well as bolstering defense mechanisms against diseases [ 5 ]. For instance, researchers have discovered a unique secondary metabolite called stilbene in orchids–a natural phytotoxin–which enhances plants’ ability to withstand external stressors [ 6 ].…”