Stress sensing and response through biomolecular condensates in plants

Abstract

In response to environmental stressors, plants have developed intricate mechanisms for rapid and efficient stress perception and adaptation. Recent research highlights the emerging role of biomolecular condensates in modulating plant stress sensing and response. These condensates function via numerous mechanisms to regulate cellular processes such as transcription, translation, RNA metabolism, and signaling pathways under stress conditions. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on stress-responsive biomolecular condensates in plants, including both the well-defined condensates, stress granules, processing bodies, nucleolus, and recently-discovered plant-specific ones. By briefly referring to findings from yeast and animal studies, we discuss mechanisms of perceiving stress signals and eliciting cellular response by plant condensates. Finally, we provide insights for future investigations on stress-responsive condensates in plants. Understanding how condensates act as stress sensors and regulators will pave the way for potential applications in improving plant resilience through targeted genetic or biotechnological interventions.