The BES1/BZR1 family transcription factor as critical regulator of plant stress resilience

• BR enhances plant stress resistance and promotes growth and development. • BZR is involved in the regulation of hormone synthesis genes and growth-related genes, which jointly respond to external stress. • Sugar signaling can maintain the stability of BR signaling transcription factor BZR1 protein under dark conditions. Brassinosteroids (BR) are ubiquitous polyhydroxylated steroid hormones in plants that play a pivotal role in orchestrating plant growth, development, and stress mitigation. The transcription factor BRI1 EMS SUPPRESSOR 1/BRASSINAZOLE RESISTANT 1 (BES1/BZR1) is central to BR signal transduction. Upon activation by the BR signal, BES1/BZR1 selectively associates with the E-box motif (CANNTG) or the BRRE element (CGTGTGT/CG) situated within the promoter region of downstream target genes, thereby tuning target gene expression. Beyond its involvement in BR signaling, BES1/BZR1 intricately participates in ethylene, abscisic acid, and other plant hormones, as well as light signal transduction pathways, synergistically governing plant growth, development, and stress resilience. This study reviews the ongoing research strides elucidating molecular mechanisms by which BES1/BZR1 modulates plant growth, development, and stress resistance through signal transduction. The insights will serve as valuable references for further exploration of the multifaceted functions of BZR.