Jasmonate refers to a class of plant hormones, collectively known as jasmonic acids or jasmonates, which play crucial roles in regulating various physiological processes in plants. They are involved in signal transduction pathways and mediate responses to a wide range of developmental and environmental cues.
Specifically, jasmonates are synthesized from a fatty acid called linolenic acid, typically in response to biotic and abiotic stresses such as insect herbivory, pathogen attack, and wounding. Once produced, they act as signaling molecules in a broad range of cellular processes, including plant growth, defense mechanisms, and responses to hormonal signals.
Jasmonates can regulate gene expression, modulate protein stability, and modulate the production of secondary metabolites, which play crucial roles in plant defense against herbivores and pathogens. They can also control root growth, leaf senescence, flower development, and fruit ripening.
Furthermore, jasmonates can regulate systemic signaling, allowing plants to communicate within themselves to allocate resources effectively in response to stress. They can be transported through the plant vasculature, enabling distant tissues to respond to local stimuli.
Given their multifunctional roles, jasmonates have attracted significant attention in agricultural and horticultural practices. Understanding their biosynthesis and signaling pathways may contribute to the development of strategies for enhancing plant resistance to pests and diseases or improving agronomic traits, such as increased yield or improved stress tolerance.
