Phytoalexin synthesis in plants

Phytoalexins are antimicrobial compounds produced by plants in response to pathogen attack or environmental stress. This secondary metabolism is part of the plant's innate immune response, helping to inhibit pathogen growth and spread. Different plant species produce distinct phytoalexins, synthesized through complex biochemical pathways that often involve key enzymes such as phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and cytochrome P450 monooxygenases. The synthesis of phytoalexins can be induced by various factors, including mechanical wounding, pathogen elicitors, and abiotic stress. Recent advancements in genomics and metabolomics have provided insights into the regulatory networks governing phytoalexin production, offering potential applications in crop protection and enhancement of disease resistance.