Elicitors in plant defense: exploring their role in biotic and abiotic stress resistance

Abstract

Plants face various biotic and abiotic stressors that threaten their growth and survival. To combat these challenges, they employ complex defense mechanisms activated by elicitor molecules, which enhance their immune responses and stress tolerance. Elicitors are classified into biotic (e.g., chitin, chitosan) and abiotic types, engaging plant defense pathways through receptor recognition and signaling cascades. Biotic stress elicitors stimulate immune responses, including reactive oxygen species production and systemic acquired resistance, thereby fortifying plants against various attackers like bacteria and fungi. Conversely, abiotic stress elicitors, such as jasmonic acid and salicylic acid, help plants cope with harsh conditions by regulating hormonal networks and increasing protective compounds. Integrating elicitor strategies with innovative biotechnological methods, like genome editing and nanotechnology, presents promising avenues for sustainable crop protection. This review highlights the potential of elicitors as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional agrochemicals, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of their mechanisms to enhance crop resilience against climate change and new threats.