The role of silicon in plant under normal conditions and stress

Abstract

The paper is a review view data on the role of silicon (Si) in the physiology of higher taxa plants; data on the synthesis and localization of Si in cells, as well as its participation in the mechanisms of tolerance and plasticity of plants under the influence of adverse environmental conditions. The unique physical properties of silicon are described, which explain its bioactivity as a regulator of absorption and reflection of sunlight, as well as a regulator of photosynthesis. The role of silicon in the regulation of water balance and transpiration of plants, in the protection of plant cells for the action of biotic and abiotic stresses by including protective mechanisms at the level of the organs, tissue and cell are shown. Recent studies have shown some homology of aquaporin proteins and silicon transporters. Particular attention is paid to the effect of silicon on the expression of genes involved in the synthesis of osmotic substances and secondary metabolites with protective properties. The study confirms that the conceptual basis for the protection and preservation of flora from abiotic and biotic stresses may be the preservation and reproduction of species characterized by increased silicon uptake and accumulation of this ion in plant organs. Thus, the obtained data indicate the prospects of further studies of silicon participation in plant adaptation to adverse changes upon environmental factors in natural ecosystems or agrocoenosis with modern conditions of increasing anthropogenic pressure and forecast of global climate change.