Potato Periderm is the First Layer of Defence against Biotic and Abiotic Stresses: a Review

Abstract

The frequently changing climate has resulted in plants facing more biotic and abiotic stresses than ever before, leading to yield and quality losses. The global population is increasing at an alarming rate and feeding the world has become a huge challenge. Being a staple crop of many countries, potato can help to overcome this challenge. A comprehensive knowledge of physiology, biochemistry and molecular genetics of development and wound healing of potato tuber periderm (skin) is very important as the periderm protects the tubers from skinning injuries, dehydration, bruising and biotic and abiotic stresses. Improvements in tuber periderm are essential to enhance tuber quality and shelf life and reduce financial losses. In this paper, we have reviewed the protective roles of tuber periderm layer in response to stress and injuries. Moreover, molecular regulation of native and wound-induced periderm formation has been discussed. Since suberization is an important aspect of tuber periderm formation and wound healing, we have also reviewed the key genes involved in this process. This review will pave the way for obtaining potato tubers resistant to various abiotic and pathogenic stresses.