Phenolamides: metabolic architects of plant adaptation

Abstract

Phenolamides are specialized plant metabolites with important roles in plant disease resistance and stress tolerance. They serve as biomarkers and effectors of oxidative stress. Moreover, they enhance plant metabolic diversity and potential for acclimation to stress. In this opinion article we focus on recent progress in phenolamide research, including phenolamide biosynthesis, decoration, and transport mechanisms, and we highlight the important role of technological advances in the discovery of new phenolamides and the identification of their biosynthetic genes. We also discuss phytohormone-regulated phenolamide biosynthesis networks and their multifunctional roles in environmental adaptation. We posit that a deeper mechanistic understanding of phenolamide biology will be essential for leveraging these molecules to develop high-value phytoprotectants and advance sustainable agriculture.

Keywords: biosynthesis; environmental adaptation; phenolamides; phytohormone regulation; plant metabolites.