Molecular Mechanisms of Cold Stress Response in Strawberry and Breeding Strategies

As a globally popular crop, strawberry is highly susceptible to cold stress, which significantly limits its cultivation and yield. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the morphological, physiological, and molecular responses of strawberry plants to cold stress. Morphologically, cold stress induces chlorosis, necrosis, and growth retardation, while physiologically, it impairs photosynthesis and membrane integrity and triggers oxidative stress. At the molecular level, the cold acclimation process in plants is orchestrated by a sophisticated regulatory network centered on the ICE-CBF/DREB signaling pathway and incorporating transcription factors, epigenetic modifications, and non-coding RNAs. The accumulation of protective compounds like proline, anthocyanins, and antioxidants is a key metabolic adaptation. Finally, we discuss integrative management practices and future breeding strategies, including genetic engineering, marker-assisted selection, and the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria to enhance cold tolerance. This comprehensive overview provides valuable insights for developing resilient strawberry varieties in the face of unpredictable climate events.