Understanding plant resilience: Biochemical and physiological responses to low temperature stress in plants

Among various abiotic stresses, low temperature stress is a limiting factor for crop growth and productivity in temperate and subtropical climatic conditions. Low temperature conditions cause freezing injuries, oxidative stress from lipid peroxidation, and excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This damages the cell membrane and cellular components, leading to electrolyte leakage. However, frost-tolerant species accumulate compatible solutes such as glycine betaine, proline, and sugars as a frost response in plants. These substances act as cryoprotectants by stabilizing cell structures, inhibiting ice crystal formation within plant tissues, and reducing cellular dehydration caused by freezing. Plants also activate an antioxidant defence system involving enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidases to combat oxidative stress. Understanding the physiological and molecular mechanisms of cold stress signalling in plants, along with the various responses, including physiological and biochemical, is essential for effective frost damage mitigation. This review emphasizes the physiological and biochemical responses of plants under low temperature stress.