Übersichtsarbeit
Transgenerational plasticity in plant defenses against herbivores: epigenetic bases, ecological trade-offs, and prospects for agriculture
Yang, Fengbo; Li, Yujie; Zhang, Rong; Zhang, Chengjia; Wang, Jing; Lü, Jing; Yang, Yuting; Wu, Qingjun; Zhang, Youjun; Su, Qi
Online veröffentlicht: Feb 10, 2026
Manuskript akzeptiert: Dec 17, 2025
finale Ms. Revision erhalten: Oct 13, 2025
Manuskript-Revision angefordert: Sep 30, 2025
Manuskript erhalten: Jul 28, 2025
Abstract
Plants perceive herbivore attack and activate sophisticated defense signaling networks, activating the appropriate defense responses. Beyond the direct within-generation response, evidence shows that herbivore attacks can generate transgenerational immune memory, leading to the enhanced basal defense or robust defense induction in the plant offspring following subsequent herbivore attack. This phenomenon, known as defense priming, equips the offspring of stressed plants with a state of enhanced alert, allowing for a more rapid and robust activation of the defense responses upon subsequent challenge. In this review, we synthesize the current understanding of herbivore-induced transgenerational plasticity. We critically examine the associated costs and trade-offs, particularly the delicate balance between improved defense and penalties in growth, reproduction, and resistance to other biotic stresses. A central focus is placed on the molecular mechanisms underpinning this inheritance, with particular emphasis on epigenetic regulation, including the pivotal roles of DNA methylation and histone modifications. Furthermore, we explore the ecological and evolutionary implications of transmitting defensive experiences across generations, assessing its adaptive value in naturally fluctuating environments. Finally, we discuss the translational potential of this knowledge, envisioning its application in sustainable agriculture through the development of novel strategies, such as breeding for epigenetically primed crops or using chemical inducers to establish heritable resistance in managed ecosystems.
Schlagworte
plant defense • transgenerational plasticity • epigenetics • DNA methylation • crop protection