The roles of trichome development genes in stress resistance

Trichomes are important epidermal structures that cover the surfaces of most terrestrial plants. Plants face various stresses due to their immobile nature, and trichomes play important roles in defense against environmental stressors including herbivores, strong light with high radiation, and ultraviolet light. To date, more than 100 genes are known to be involved in trichome development, including genes that regulate trichome initiation, differentiation, multidimensional cell growth, and branching. In the current review, we classify trichome development genes based on whether they are involved in trichome initiation, differentiation, and branching. Most of these genes encode transcription factors that positively or negatively regulate trichome development. Given that trichomes play key roles in plant stress responses, we explore whether trichome development-related genes also participate in other biological processes or responses, such as biotic and abiotic stress responses. Possible interactions of signaling pathways that function in trichome development and stress resistance were discussed. Elucidating the trichome development mechanism in model plants should shed light on the development of similar structures in other species and uncover key genes involved in these processes. Further characterizing these genes should facilitate the use of genetic engineering to improve stress resistance in crops.