Decoding the long-term impacts of genetic modifications in hormone pathways on plant physiology and ecosystem stability

The genetic modification of plant hormonal pathways presents transformative opportunities to address pressing global challenges such as food security, climate change, and environmental degradation. By precisely altering hormonal signaling networks, such as those involving abscisic acid, gibberellins, and cytokinin, crops can be engineered for enhanced resilience to abiotic stresses, optimized growth, and reduced dependence on chemical inputs. Beyond agricultural productivity, these modifications may improve ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling, thus contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices. However, the implementation of genetically modified (GM) plants raises substantial ecological, evolutionary, and socio-economic concerns. Potential risks such as unintended ecological consequences, gene flow to wild relatives, and ethical issues surrounding the equity and safety of such technologies require careful consideration. This review explores the promise, risks, and challenges of modifying plant hormone pathways, emphasizing the need for holistic research that integrates ecological, genetic, and ethical dimensions. This review uniquely integrates ethical considerations with ecological and genetic risk assessments, offering a comprehensive perspective on the responsible development and deployment of hormone-modified GM plants. It underscores the importance of long-term monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and adaptive regulatory frameworks to ensure the responsible deployment of GM plants in both agricultural and natural ecosystems.