Transcription Factors Regulating Nutrient and Ion Uptake in Plants Exposed to Abiotic and Biotic Stress Conditions.

Abstract

Plant growth and productivity are severely constrained by abiotic and biotic stresses, which disrupt essential physiological processes, particularly nutrient and ion homeostasis. In response to these challenges, plants activate sophisticated molecular networks, with transcription factors (TFs) emerging as central regulators that integrate stress signals with nutrient management. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the pivotal role of TFs in coordinating stress resilience and nutrient acquisition. It elaborates on how distinct TF families, including AP2/ERF, NAC, MYB, and bZIP, are regulated through complex signal transduction pathways involving reactive oxygen species (ROS), phytohormones, and second messengers. Upon activation, these TFs directly modulate the expression of genes encoding nutrient transporters, ion channels, and detoxification proteins, thereby maintaining cellular ion balance and facilitating nutrient uptake under stress. Notably, specific TFs such as NLP7, HY5, and STOP1 are highlighted for their direct role in regulating the homeostasis of key nutrients like nitrate, phosphate, and metals, linking nutrient signaling to adaptive responses. On the other hand, key TF families, including WRKY, MYB, bZIP, AP2/ERF, and NAC, have also been studied for their role in biotic stress tolerance. Despite these advances, the identification of TFs that specifically govern nutrient transport under combined stresses remains limited. We conclude that advanced functional genomics, machine learning, and genetic engineering to manipulate these master regulatory networks present a transformative strategy for developing next-generation crops with enhanced nutrient use efficiency and climate resilience, which is critical for achieving global food security.