Mechanisms and Approaches for Enhancing High-Temperature Stress Tolerance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Abstract

High-temperature stress (HTS) is a primary concern for global food security in the changing climate. Indeed, rice is a major food crop worldwide, and HTS commonly affects rice productivity and quality. Consequently, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying heat tolerance and developing HTS-tolerant rice varieties is crucial. HTS significantly impairs rice growth, development, quality and yield. Here, we critically reviewed the effects of HTS on rice growth and development, including environmental interactions, and explained the molecular mechanisms of sensing, signalling and protein homeostasis under HTS. We also outlined molecular adaptation approaches, including QTL mapping, marker-assisted breeding, genome editing, climate resilience approaches and cutting-edge phenotyping technologies for developing HTS-tolerant transgenic rice. This review proposed strategies to increase rice resistance to HTS, offering fresh concepts and perspectives for further research.