Epigenetic Modifications in Root Development and Stress Responses

Abstract

Plants are not able to flee or communicate under unfavorable biotic or abiotic stress conditions, which can have a profound impact on their growth, development and reproduction. As a result, plants have established more sophisticated adaptation mechanisms that enable them to thrive in harsh environments. Epigenetic regulation is essential to regulate cellular processes needed for survival in adverse environments. In plants, epigenetic changes play important role in root development because they affect gene expression linked with root architecture, growth and stress response allowing plants to adapt to changing conditions. These changes include DNA methylation, histone modification and small RNA-mediated regulation. Epigenetic mechanisms change chromatin state of stress-responsive genes regulating them at transcriptional and posttranscriptional phases. These approaches emphasize significance of epigenetic alterations in connecting root systems developmental plasticity and environmental adaptability, opening door to create ways to improve crop performance under difficult circumstances.