Traversing the heat-A review on heat stress untangling the modern approaches in soybean (Glycine max. L)

• Soybean is a versatile "miracle crop" but is vulnerable to fluctuating temperatures. • Techniques like CRISPR and genetic engineering can enhance soybean heat tolerance. • Soybean uses hormonal signaling and heat shock proteins to combat heat stress. • Resilient soybean crops are key to addressing global food security amid abiotic stresses. The soybean crop, known as a "miracle crop" for its versatility as an oilseed, legume, and protein-rich source, is facing yield curtailments due to fluctuating global temperatures, emphasizing a deeper understanding of its heat stress tolerance mechanisms ply both conventional and non-conventional methods. Cutting edges techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9, genetic engineering, QTL mapping, and transcriptome studies are in limelight. The core motif is to supercharge heat tolerance by manipulating heat shock proteins (HSPs), transcription factors, and epigenetic mechanisms. Soybean response to heat stress entails complex molecular and cellular processes including hormone signaling, ROS detoxification, antioxidant synthesis, and gene expression regulation. Additionally, transcriptome and proteome perusal has shown the significant role of transcriptional changes in heat stress response. Abiotic stresses, including drought and nutrient deficiencies, also pose risks to global food security by reducing crop yields. Advanced approaches that enhance stress resilience in soybean are critical for buoy future production amid unpredictable climate challenges.