A Systems Biology Perspective on Plant Hormonal Signaling Networks

Luca Romano

doi:10.64229/63j4zt66

Authors

Luca Romano Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University Embankment, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64229/63j4zt66

Keywords:

Systems Biology, Plant Hormones, Signaling Networks, Mathematical Modeling, Omics Integration, Network Topology, Abscisic Acid, Phenotypic Plasticity

Abstract

Plant hormonal signaling networks are the central processing units that translate environmental and developmental cues into adaptive growth and physiological responses. Traditionally studied through a reductionist lens, our understanding has been revolutionized by the advent of systems biology. This approach integrates high-throughput omics data (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) with computational modeling to construct holistic, predictive models of these complex networks. This review synthesizes how a systems biology perspective has elucidated the dynamic, interconnected nature of plant hormone signaling. We explore how network topology analysis has revealed key regulatory nodes and emergent properties, such as cross-talk and feedback loops, that govern system-wide behavior. We discuss the application of mathematical modeling-from ordinary differential equations to Boolean networks-in simulating hormone dynamics and predicting plant phenotypes under various conditions. The review highlights case studies in major hormones like auxin, cytokinin, abscisic acid, and jasmonic acid, demonstrating how systems-level analyses have decoded their synergistic and antagonistic interactions. Furthermore, we examine the role of multi-omics integration in uncovering novel regulatory components and providing a mechanistic understanding of phenotypic plasticity. Finally, we address current challenges, including spatial-temporal resolution and single-cell analyses, and future prospects for leveraging this knowledge in synthetic biology and climate-resilient crop design. By moving from parts lists to system principles, systems biology is poised to unlock the full potential of hormonal engineering for sustainable agriculture.

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A Systems Biology Perspective on Plant Hormonal Signaling Networks

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