Thermosensory regulation of the floral transition and floral organogenesis

Climate change-induced heat stress poses a significant threat to plant reproductive success and crop yields by disrupting both the floral transition and floral organ development. This review explores the complex thermosensory mechanisms that plants use to perceive and respond to elevated ambient temperatures, highlighting how environmental cues are integrated with developmental signaling pathways. Central to these responses is the thermosensory regulation of flowering time through conserved genetic networks that control key floral integrators such as FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT). Various temperature-sensitive regulators fine-tune flowering time through coordinated changes in gene expression, protein stability, and intracellular and intercellular trafficking. Beyond the floral transition, thermoresponsive pathways also influence meristem activity and floral organogenesis, with significant consequences for reproductive development and yield stability. A deeper understanding of these interconnected mechanisms will provide critical insights for developing climate-resilient crops that can sustain reproductive success under rising temperatures, thereby contributing to global food security.