Epigenetic Mechanisms in Plant Adaptation and Stress Memory

Epigenetics is central to how plants adapt and respond to environmental stresses through mechanisms like DNA methylation, histone modifications, and the action of non-coding RNAs. These mechanisms alter gene expression and chromatin accessibility, enabling plants to cope with changes such as drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures. While DNA methylation helps regulate gene expression under stress conditions, histone modifications adjust chromatin structure, affecting the transcription of stress-responsive genes. Non-coding RNAs like miRNAs and siRNAs play critical roles in fine-tuning gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, which enhances plant adaptability to varying stress scenarios. Moreover, the capacity of epigenetic mechanisms to retain memory of past stress exposures enhances future stress responses in plants. These adaptations involve complex interactions with phytohormonal pathways, integrating responses to both abiotic and biotic stresses and enabling metabolic reprogramming that aids stress tolerance.

This Research Topic aims to explore the latest advancements in the understanding of epigenetic mechanisms in plant stress regulation and their potential applications in improving plant resilience. By elucidating the intricate network of epigenetic modifications, this research seeks to uncover new strategies for breeding and engineering stress-tolerant plants, which could have significant implications for agriculture and sustainability.

To gather further insights in the realm of plant stress adaptation and epigenetic regulation, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

o DNA Methylation and Stress Response

o Histone Modifications and Chromatin Dynamics

o Non-Coding RNAs in Stress Regulation

o Stress Memory and Epigenetic Inheritance

o Chromatin Remodeling in Response to Stress

o Transgenerational Epigenetic Inheritance

o Interactions Between Epigenetics and Phytohormonal Pathways

o Collaborative Mechanisms in Biotic and Abiotic Stress Responses

o Role of Epigenetic Modifiers in Plant Adaptation

o Epigenetic Approaches to Metabolic Reprogramming

o Enhancing Crop Stress Tolerance Through Epigenetic Insights