oxidative-stress

Oxidative stress in plants occurs when reactive oxygen species accumulate faster than the plant can neutralize them through its antioxidant defense systems, causing cellular damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA. This stress is particularly important in plant science because photosynthesis and aerobic metabolism inherently generate reactive oxygen species, and plants must manage this while also coping with environmental stressors like drought, heat, and light exposure. Research into how plants regulate oxidative stress is essential for understanding plant physiology, improving crop resilience, and developing varieties better adapted to challenging growing conditions.