Light regulation of shoot architecture in horticultural crops

Abstract

Plants undergo dynamic morphological changes in response to fluctuating light conditions. Despite significant progress in elucidating the mechanisms of light signal transduction, the precise influence of light on the development and regulation of shoot architecture remains a central research question. Studies focusing on model plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana and rice suggest light modulates shoot architecture through intricate regulatory networks. However, the molecular mechanisms governing the diverse effects of light on horticultural crops are still poorly understood. This review primarily focuses on horticultural crops, integrating research on model plants, including Arabidopsis and rice, to provide an overview of the regulatory mechanisms of light signals in plant architectural development. It also explores the prospects for manipulating light environments in greenhouse management strategies.