Molecular crosstalk of transcription factors and hormones in drought tolerance genes in plants

Water deficit is a critical challenge to global agricultural productivity and food security, which is exacerbated by climate change and increasing water scarcity. To withstand drought stress, plants employ a variety of molecular strategies driven by complex regulatory networks. This review examines the central role of transcription factors (TFs) as master regulators that activate drought responsive genes, which in turn mediate key adaptive processes such as osmoregulation, antioxidative defense, and membrane stability. A distinctive aspect of this review is its focus on the dynamic interplay between TFs and hormonal signaling pathways, including abscisic acid, ethylene, salicylic acid, and jasmonic acid. These pathways collectively modulate stress-responsive mechanisms and coordinate plant adaptation to drought. The review also highlights the synergistic effects between TFs, drought-responsive genes, and hormonal pathways, offering a comprehensive perspective on the multifaceted regulatory networks that underpin drought tolerance. By building upon recent advances in molecular crosstalk, this review suggests that understanding the complex interactions between these components is key to identifying effective strategies to enhance plant drought resilience. Furthermore, the insights presented here pave the way for future research, including the use of molecular breeding and biotechnological approaches to develop drought-tolerant crops and contribute to global food security.