Molecular hydrogen in agriculture.

Area of Science:

• Plant Science
• Agricultural Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Plant stresses, exacerbated by climate change and human impact, threaten agriculture and food security.
• Molecular hydrogen (H2) research is gaining traction for its diverse roles in plant physiology.
• There is a growing need for environmentally friendly strategies to ensure future food security.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements and future implications of molecular hydrogen in agriculture.
• To explore how H2 impacts plant cell function and enhances plant performance.
• To assess the potential of H2 as a valuable addition to agricultural practices.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on H2's effects on plant growth and stress tolerance.
• Analysis of H2's role in mitigating various plant stresses (salinity, heavy metals, drought).
• Examination of H2 delivery systems and their application in agriculture.

Main Results:

• H2 application can mitigate a range of plant stresses, including salinity, heavy metals, and drought.
• H2 improves plant growth, stress resistance, and post-harvest durability.
• H2-saturated water is a practical form for molecular hydrogen delivery.

Conclusions:

• Molecular hydrogen (H2) shows significant potential to improve plant growth, stress tolerance, and productivity in agriculture.
• H2 delivery systems offer a safe, easy-to-apply, and environmentally friendly strategy for enhancing crop yields and ensuring food security.
• Further understanding of H2's molecular mechanisms in plants will solidify its role in future agricultural practices.