Vol. 12, Special Issue 10 (2023)

Author(s):
RT Shende, RM Shinde, DN Damse and PP Dande

Abstract:
The WRKY transcription factor (TF) family is central to regulating plant development and responses to biotic and Abiotic stressors. Escalating stress frequencies, including temperature shifts, water scarcity, and soil salinity, emphasizes the need to enhance stress resilience in crucial crops. WRKY TFs mechanistically govern plant processes, like stomatal adjustment, photosynthesis fine-tuning, osmolyte accumulation, and stress-responsive gene activation. The conserved WRKY domain, marked by the "WRKYGQK" pattern, is pivotal for TF function. WRKY TFs exhibit structural flexibility due to sub classification based on WRKY domains and zinc-finger motifs. For biotic stress, WRKY TFs play a vital role in fortifying plant defenses against pathogens and herbivores. They activate defense genes via signal molecules like salicylic acid and jasmonic acid, mediate immune responses, and coordinate cross-talk between defense pathways, offering potential for pathogen-resistant crops. Regarding abiotic stress, WRKY TFs translate external stress signals into internal adjustments by interacting with specific DNA sequences (W-boxes) in gene promoters. They also engage in signal cross-talk, hormonal interactions, and post-translational modifications, expanding their influence. WRKY TFs contribute to trichome formation, seed germination, and senescence. In short this review discuss about, WRKY TFs are pivotal for plant stress resilience and regulate diverse physiological and developmental aspects. Integrating genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics has deepened our understanding of WRKY TFs, offering biotechnological avenues to enhance crop resilience and global food security.