Role of brassinosteroids in crop productivity

Abstract

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a new group of plant hormones which play an important role in various phases of plant growth and development. This group of compounds regulate various processes in plants like seed germination, rhizogenesis, flower and fruit development, senescence and abscission. This group of plant steroids includes about 70 compounds having structural similarities with animals, insects and human steroid hormones. In recent years through the use of molecular genetics and genetic studies its role has clearly been established in plant growth and development. About 40 years back the first BR was isolated from pollens of <i>Brassica rapa </i>and since then several practical applications of BR in agriculture uses have been reported. But due to high cost of production its commercial application was hampered. However, in recent years, due to increasing availability of many of its formulations in countries like Russia, China, Cuba and India has opened a new door in its agricultural applications. Besides, BRs also protect the plants from various biotic and abiotic stresses. The present article discusses the importance of BRs in enhancing crop productivity.