Chapter 5 - High-Temperature Stress and Metabolism of Secondary Metabolites in Plants

Abstract

Secondary metabolites are useful natural products that are synthesized through secondary metabolism in plants. The production of some secondary metabolites is linked to the induction of morphological differentiation and appears as cells undergo morphological differentiation and maturation during plant growth. Plant secondary metabolites play a significant role in plant adaptation to various environmental constraints that not only influence plant growth but also alter the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Plant growth and development are precisely regulated by secondary metabolism that acts as a reservoir of key phytochemicals, protecting plants against multiple environmental constraints. These plant secondary metabolites are important candidates for human nutrition. A number of plant secondary metabolites possess antioxidant properties that act as the first line of defense against oxidative damage induced by different environmental (including high temperature) constraints. Plant secondary metabolites have not been fully studied with respect to their relevant functions in plants under environmental stress.