From odor to order: unveiling the crucial role of hydrogen sulfide in plant life

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has garnered significant attention as a novel gaseous signaling molecule. While its physiological roles in animals are well documented, research over the past two decades has increasingly uncovered its vital functions in plants, establishing it as a crucial component in plant signaling processes. In plants, endogenous H₂S is produced across various subcellular compartments and plays indispensable roles in stress responses, growth, and development. Research has progressed from model plants to horticultural crops, underscoring the prospective agricultural benefits of H₂S. Nevertheless, several challenges persist, including unclear signaling targets and limited real-world applications. This comprehensive review explores the discovery, biosynthesis, physiological roles, mechanisms, and molecular targets of H₂S in plants, offering valuable insights in future research.