OCTADECANOID-MEDIATED SIGNAL-TRANSDUCTION IN HIGHER-PLANTS

The observation that methyljasmonate is a strong promoter of senescenc e marked the discovery of lipid-derived signaling molecules of higher plants. This group of compounds, now collectively termed octadecanoids , is derived from the fatty acid a-linolenic acid and involved in phys iological processes such diverse as the triggering of defense reaction s against herbivores and pathogens, mechanotransduction, plant volatil e emission, potato tuberization, and many others. Recent research has yielded clues to a deeper understanding of octadecanoid biology. Contr ol over this central signaling system may open new avenues in biologic al pest control through plant defense regulators.