Multifaceted roles of BBX transcription factors: impacts on key agronomical traits and environmental resilience

Summary B‐box (BBX) proteins were initially characterized as transcription factors connecting light signaling to the regulation of flowering time and seedling photomorphogenesis. However, over the last decade, increasing evidence has shown that they integrate light and hormone signaling, modulating multiple physiological processes during plant life. In this review, we provide an overview of the structure of this protein family and the function of its members in Arabidopsis thaliana model species. Then, we specifically discuss the role of BBX factors in controlling agronomically important traits in crop species, including flowering time, fruit and seed production, responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, and specialized metabolism. Finally, we address several aspects that require further investigation to dissect the mechanisms behind the multifaceted roles of BBX proteins and their implications for crop improvement. Current knowledge positions this protein family as a strategic target for the integrated modulation of signal transduction pathways, intended to optimize diverse physiological responses and improve the yield and nutritional value of food feedstocks.