Plant immune inducers from fundamental research to applications: Past achievements, current challenges, and future perspectives

Plant pathogens cause substantial global crop losses, posing a serious threat to food security. Conventional chemical pesticides face increasing challenges, including the development of pathogen resistance and environmental pollution. In contrast, plant immune inducers offer a sustainable alternative by activating the plant immune system, thus reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. This review provides a systematic overview of the historical development, classification, applications, and future challenges associated with plant immune inducers. We focus on existing commercialized products and the obstacles faced by promising active substances during commercialization. We further outline future directions and strategies for the development and production of plant immune inducers, with particular emphasis on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence for product screening and development, as well as delivery technologies for application. Plant immune inducers represent a crucial shift toward sustainable agriculture by harnessing plant defense mechanisms. Overcoming current challenges through interdisciplinary innovation in design, delivery, mechanistic understanding, and application is essential for unlocking their full potential to enhance global food security and reduce environmental impact.