Waterlogging Stress Physiology in Barley

Abstract

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is the most susceptible cereal species to excess moisture stress. Waterlogging-induced hypoxia causes major morphological, physiological, and metabolic changes, some of which are regulated by the action of plant growth regulators and signal molecules including nitric oxide. Recent studies have evidenced the participation of phytoglobins in attenuating hypoxic stress during conditions of excessive moisture through their ability to scavenge nitric oxide and influence the synthesis and response of growth regulators. This review will highlight major cellular changes linked to plant responses to waterlogging stress with emphasis on phytoglobins.