Melatonin in plants: A pleiotropic molecule for abiotic stresses and pathogens infection

Abstract

Melatonin is a pleiotropic molecule with diverse physiological effects in plants. Pleiotropy refers to a single molecule's ability to produce multiple effects within an organism, making it a multifunctional molecule that can influence various physiological processes simultaneously. In this review, we focus on exploring Melatonin's role in potato plants, specifically examining the evidence supporting its involvement in abiotic stress responses and defense against pathogen infection. Previous studies have demonstrated that Melatonin plays a crucial role in regulating abiotic stress responses in potato plants. It acts as an effective antioxidant, safeguarding the plant against oxidative stress induced by high salinity and drought. Melatonin mitigates the detrimental impacts of chilling stress, cold shock, and frost damage, thereby enhancing the potato plants' tolerance to ultraviolet radiation. Melatonin exhibits significant involvement in protecting potato plants against pathogen infection. It acts as an inducer of defense responses, triggering the production of defense compounds in potato plants. Melatonin displays antifungal properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of various fungal pathogens. This review emphasizes the pleiotropic nature of Melatonin in potato plants, particularly in relation to abiotic stress responses and defense against pathogen infection. Future research should focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms by which Melatonin safeguards potato plants from these stressors, as well as exploring the roles of other molecules involved in this process. Furthermore, it is essential to investigate the effects of Melatonin in other plant species to determine the breadth of its biological activities. Overall, by comprehending the multifaceted functions of Melatonin in potato plants, we can enhance our understanding of plant physiology and potentially develop strategies for improving stress tolerance and disease resistance in horticultural crops.