From Odor to Order: Unveiling the Crucial Role of Hydrogen Sulfide in Plant Life

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has garnered significant attention as a novel gaseous signaling molecule. While its physiological roles in animals are well-documented, research over the past two decades has increasingly uncovered its vital functions in plants, establishing it as a crucial component in plant signaling processes. In plants, endogenous H2S is produced across various subcellular compartments and plays indispensable roles in stress responses, growth, and development. Research has progressed from model plants to horticultural crops, underscoring the prospective agricultural benefits of H2S. Nevertheless, several challenges persist, including unclear signaling targets and limited real-world applications. This comprehensive review explores the discovery, biosynthesis, physiological roles, mechanisms, and molecular targets of H2S in plants, offering valuable insights in future research.