Abiotic Stress and Plant Cytoskeleton Dynamics: Unraveling Structural Pathways for Stress Adaptation

Plants are increasingly encountering abiotic stressors, such as salinity, drought, heavy metals, microplastics, and various environmental contaminants, that significantly hinder growth and productivity. In response to such challenges, plants rely on complex organelles and signaling networks to perceive stress and adjust for survival. The cytoskeleton, consisting of actin filaments and microtubules, has emerged as a critical component of these networks, functioning as both a structural framework and a dynamic regulator of cellular responses. Recent studies highlight the importance of stress-induced cytoskeletal reorganization in facilitating processes like ion transport, vesicular trafficking, cell wall modifications, and interactions with key signaling molecules. Understanding these cytoskeletal-mediated pathways is essential to unravel how plants acclimate to environmental changes and offers opportunities to develop crops capable of thriving in contaminated and fluctuating environments.This Research Topic aims to address the gaps in understanding the structural basis of stress adaptation, particularly the role of the cytoskeleton. It seeks to gather and consolidate research that demonstrates the impact of cytoskeleton dynamics on plant responses to diverse abiotic stressors. By focusing on mechanistic insights, novel imaging and molecular techniques, and biotechnological approaches, this Research Topic aspires to highlight how manipulating cytoskeletal pathways can enhance stress tolerance in plants. The ultimate objective is to develop novel techniques that strengthen crop resilience in increasingly challenging environments, thus contributing to global food security and ecosystem stability.To gather further insights into the dynamic role of the plant cytoskeleton in stress adaptation, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Cytoskeletal remodeling under abiotic stress conditions• Regulation of ion transport by the cytoskeleton• Mechanistic insights into vesicular trafficking dynamics• Interactions between the cytoskeleton and cell wall modifications• The role of cytoskeletal proteins in stress memory mechanisms• Cytoskeleton-mediated signaling pathways with reactive oxygen species, calcium, and phytohormonesWe invite a range of submissions, including original research articles, brief communications, perspectives, and comprehensive evaluations. We particularly encourage studies employing advanced imaging, molecular genetics, proteomics, and biotechnological methodologies to illuminate the cytoskeleton's role in plant stress adaptation.-------We welcome contributions from researchers across the field and are happy to support you as you prepare your submission. If you would like initial feedback on whether your planned manuscript aligns with the scope of this Research Topic, please reach out to us at plantscience@frontiersin.org before submitting. Early input can help ensure your work is a strong fit and save you time later in the process. If you would like to join us, simply click “Participate in this topic” at the top right of this page. This lets us know you plan to contribute, ensures you never miss key deadlines, and gives you access to helpful resources to guide you through the submission process. We very much look forward to your participation and to building a vibrant and cohesive Research Topic together. Topic editors: Amir Abdullah Khan, Kashif Hayat, Qaiser Javed, Jiangqi Wen Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/74553/abiotic-stress-and-plant-cytoskeleton-dynamics-unraveling-structural-pathways-for-stress-adaptation