Title : Melatonin and Horticultural crops
Abstract:
Melatonin, a naturally occurring indoleamine found in both animals and plants, plays vital roles in regulating circadian rhythms, enhancing immunity, and combating aging in animals, while also serving as a beneficial health supplement for human well-being. In plants, melatonin acts as a signaling molecule that triggers specific physiological responses aimed at boosting photosynthesis, growth, carbon fixation, rooting, seed germination, and defense mechanisms against various biotic and abiotic stressors. It also functions as a key regulator of gene expression related to essential plant hormones like indole?3?acetic acid, cytokinin, ethylene, gibberellin, and auxin carrier proteins. Moreover, its ability to regulate stress-responsive genes and activate genes encoding pathogenesis-related proteins and antioxidant enzymes under stressful conditions underscores its versatility as a molecule. This comprehensive overview delves into the diverse functions of melatonin in plant physiology, growth, development, and regulation, highlighting its role as a potent anti-stress agent against a range of abiotic stressors such as drought, salinity, temperature fluctuations, UV radiation, and harmful chemicals. Furthermore, this analysis uncovers novel potential roles of melatonin in plants, including its impact on improving the quality of fruits, vegetables, and flowers, which could significantly contribute to sustainable crop production practices and ensure food safety in environmentally friendly agricultural settings.
