Short description:

Long description:

This book highlights the multifunctional role of the ubiquitous molecule, melatonin, in crop plants. The major focus of this edition is to provide detailed insights into morphophysiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of melatonin in the growth and development of the plant. The inception of melatonin as an animal hormone and the subsequent discovery of its multifaceted function in the animal system has triggered the research on this pineal gland hormone. During the last decade, the discovery, quantification and functional studies of melatonin as phytohormone has emerged at a rapid pace. Recently, this phyto-protectant has become an integral component of lab and field-based research on the mitigation of adverse effects of climate-driven abiotic stresses and postharvest biology and technology.

The book explores various biosynthetic pathways and detection of melatonin covering its role in flowering, fruit development, photosynthesis, respiration, hormonal crosstalk, post-harvest biology and reactive oxygen species and nitrogen cycles. This book is of high interest to postharvest industries, horticulturists, scientists, researchers, and students.   

Table of Contents:

Ch 1. Melatonin discovery and divergent biosynthetic pathways in plant.- Ch 2. Melatonin detection and quantification techniques.- Ch 3. Melatonin-mediated regulation of germination, plant establishment and vegetative development.- Ch 4. Regulatory role of melatonin in flowering, fruit setting and ripening.- Ch 5. Regulatory role of melatonin in photosynthesis and respiration.- Ch 6. Phytohormonal cross-talk with melatonin in plant.- Ch 7. Interaction of melatonin with reactive oxygen species in plants.- Ch 8. Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS) and Melatonin Interaction in Plant.- Ch 9. Diverse functional role of melatonin in post-harvest biology.- Ch 10. Regulatory role of melatonin in post-harvest management of vegetables and fruits.- Ch 11. Synergistic effect of melatonin in plant growth and development in stress mitigation.- Ch 12. Melatonin mediated regulation of growth, production and protection in forest plant species.- Ch 13. Melatonin: A promising tool against climate change and food security for better plant survival.