Lipids, Their Biosynthesis and Role in Plant Defense Signaling

Abstract

Naturally the plants encounter many kinds of microorganisms with pathogenic potential. Plants have evolved different mechanism like preformed physical and chemical barriers, production of antimicrobial compounds and induction of various defense signaling pathways to defend against these microbes. Previously only phytohormones like salicylic acid, Jasmonic acid, ethylene etc. were known to mediate the signaling of defense pathways in plants. Recently Plant lipids have emerged as important mediators of plant defense. Lipids are critical components of plant cell membranes and provide energy for metabolic activities. They serve as second messengers in signal transduction mechanisms that influence plant growth, development, and response to stress.