Molecular Approaches to Improve Legume Salt Stress Tolerance

Abstract

The global challenge of crop loss due to salt stress became increasingly significant, especially in the context of meeting the rising demands of a growing world population. This review focuses on the impact of salt stress on leguminous plants throughout their entire growth stages. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular strategies employed to enhance the performance of legumes in saline environments. In addressing this issue, the review critically assesses recent advancements in bolstering legume salt stress tolerance through genetic engineering. This approach is acknowledged for its efficiency compared to traditional breeding methods, facilitating the transfer of desired genes without introducing extraneous genetic material from the donor organism. The review also examines the critical role of preventing ionic toxicity in transgenic leguminous plants by expressing foreign Na⁺/H⁺ antiporter genes and transcription factors. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the positive outcomes observed when introducing or overexpressing genes related to compatible solutes in transgenic legumes. These genetic modifications have proven effective in enhancing the tolerance of legumes to salinity-induced osmotic stress. Another aspect explored in the review is the improving of salt stress-induced oxidative stress management in various transgenic legume species. This is achieved through the expression of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic genes. Finally, the review explores the manipulation of candidate genes to improve nodule performance under salt stress. By identifying and modifying specific genes, researchers can pave the way for leguminous plants to thrive in salt-affected environments.