Scientists have identified a mechanism that alters plant growth under cold stress conditions.

Scientists at Chonnam National University have discovered a molecular switch that protects crops from frost. The new findings reveal a rapid molecular switch that alters plant growth under cold stress conditions, opening up pathways for climate-resilient crops. This is reported by Chonnam National University. A research team from Korea discovered how plants quickly activate a hidden genetic "switch" that helps them survive in cold environments. They demonstrate that low temperatures cause the reprogramming of the hormone signaling pathway, triggering the degradation of auxin/indoleacetic acid repressors, releasing ARF7 and ARF19 to activate the main gene CRF3, helping plants survive the cold. This offers a new pathway for breeding crops that remain productive even under unpredictable climatic conditions. Sudden cold snaps can threaten the survival of plants, especially during the early stages of growth. But how do plants detect low temperatures quickly enough to initiate ...