Crosstalk between stress-responsive molecular networks and nutrient signaling pathways: emerging insights into plant resilience and metabolic optimization

Plants have evolved complex molecular networks that integrate nutritional signaling with stress-responsive mechanisms to maintain growth and survival under challenging environmental conditions. Recent research emphasizes dynamic interactions among key macronutrients (N, P, K) and micronutrients (Fe, Zn) signaling, and stress-responsive regulatory elements, including transcription factors (DREB, NAC, MYB, bZIP), kinases (SnRKs, MAPKs), and redox-sensitive proteins. This coordinated signaling ensures accurate regulation of antioxidant defense, osmolyte generation, ion homeostasis, and hormonal equilibrium during drought, salinity, heat, and nutrient-deficiency stresses. Nitrogen availability influences the expression of stress-related genes through nitrate transporters (NRTs) and nitric oxide (NO) signaling, whereas phosphorus deficiency regulates lipid remodelling and reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification via PHR1 and SPX-domain proteins. Potassium controls stomatal conductance and osmotic adjustment, while Fe and Zn homeostasis influence ROS signaling and transcriptional reprogramming. Redox signals and secondary messengers, including Ca²⁺ and reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, further enhance these nutrient-stress interactions, orchestrating metabolic and transcriptional responses. Addressing this intricate interplay presents novel opportunities for developing crops with enhanced resilience and nutrient-use efficiency. This review consolidates recent advances in molecular, physiological, and omics-based research to clarify how the integration of nutritional stress influences plant adaptability, highlighting prospective targets for genetic and agronomic strategies aimed at sustainable crop production under climatic stress.