This topic explores the application of advanced biotechnological approaches—including genetic engineering tools such as CRISPR/Cas9, RNA interference (RNAi), and synthetic biology constructs—to modulate key signaling pathways involved in plant stress responses. Specifically, manipulation of pathways such as the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, receptor-like kinases (RLKs), and calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) is aimed at enhancing plant resilience to environmental stresses like drought, salinity, and pathogens.

A significant aspect involves the use of chemical genetics and small-molecule inhibitors to dissect and control specific signaling nodes within these pathways. By targeting kinases or phosphatases with specific inhibitors, researchers can fine-tune plant growth and defense signaling, identify regulatory bottlenecks, and elucidate crosstalk between stress and developmental responses. For example, inhibitors of MAPKs or abscisic acid (ABA) signaling have proven effective in identifying key regulators and stress adaptive mechanisms.

In addition to genetic modifications, the topic encourages exploration of unconventional protein secretion systems (UPS) and protein engineering—such as the deployment of designer peptides and nano-bodies—to further bolster plant defense. Novel high-throughput phenotyping and multi-omics technologies are also leveraged to unravel the complex regulatory networks underlying stress resilience.

The integration of these multidisciplinary biotechnological innovations—including precise gene editing, pathway inhibition, and synthetic regulatory networks—is anticipated to significantly enhance the development of crop varieties that are not only robust and yield-efficient but also tailored for sustainable agriculture. Ultimately, such strategies support global food security by empowering crops to better withstand the intensifying environmental challenges posed by climate change.

To gather further insights in this context, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Genetic engineering techniques for crop stress tolerance
- Role of receptor-like kinases in plant immunity
- Chemical genetic approaches to modulate plant pathways
- Synthetic biology applications for enhanced plant resilience
- Omics technologies in studying plant stress responses

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Innovative Strategies In Plant Signaling For Sustainable Agriculture