Current understanding of heat shock protein-mediated responses to heat stress in rice

Global warming significantly impacts crop production and poses a major threat to food security. Indeed, as one of the world’s most important food crops, the yield and quality of rice (Oryza sativa L.) are frequently affected by heat stress (HS). Therefore, clarifying the molecular mechanism of HS and cultivating heat-tolerant rice varieties is of critical importance. To gain insight into the heat shock proteins (HSPs) regulated functions, molecular mechanisms have been explored in rice response to HS. This study synthesizes current research on HSPs and their roles in improving rice tolerance to HS. It also explores the cross-talk between HSPs and phytohormones through cis-acting elements. Additionally, a total of 20 HSPs were identified in the rice genome as playing key roles in the development of heat-tolerant rice varieties. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) network analysis proposed 15 key HSPs as a model for adaptation strategies. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that these key HSPs played important roles in rice response to HS. Together, these strategies have the potential to increase rice's resistance to HS, offering fresh concepts and perspectives for further study.