Mechanisms for cell survival during abiotic stress: focusing on plasma membrane

Abstract Plants are continually challenged by abiotic stressors, including drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures, which can adversely affect their growth and development. The plasma membrane, acting as a pivotal interface between the cell and its environment, is particularly susceptible to such stresses. This review focuses on current understanding of how abiotic stresses affect plasma membrane integrity in plants. The review also explores the critical roles of plasma membrane proteins and lipids under stress conditions, highlighting signal transduction pathways that the plasma membrane initiates to mitigate abiotic stress. By consolidating these findings, this review provides a comprehensive overview that is pivotal for advancing the development of stress-tolerant plant varieties. The insights gained from this synthesis are expected to contribute significantly to the enhancement of plant resilience in the face of environmental challenges.