Root hair plasticity in cereals under abiotic stress

Abiotic stress is a constant threat to crop growth and yield in the context of climate change. Root systems that can best adapt their architecture to environmental challenges contribute to enhanced sustainability and resilience in crop production. As the outermost part of the root system with direct contact to the soil environment, root hairs are directly exposed to external stimuli and play a crucial role in responding to abiotic stresses by their developmental adaptation. Here, we review recently discovered genes regulating root hair plasticity under abiotic stress in cereals. Moreover, we discuss possible mechanisms by which abiotic stress-derived signals can modulate cereal root hairs plasticity and enhance plant performance. Finally, we advocate using this knowledge to advance our understanding of the regulation of abiotic stress-induced root hair plasticity in cereals, to optimize soil resource capture and to ultimately develop more stress-adaptive crops, thus ensuring sustainable crop production under unfavorable conditions.