Advancements in the role of RPD3-type histone deacetylases in plant development and stress responses

Plants have evolved dynamic and complex epigenetics-dependent mechanisms to ensure sustainable growth and development under various environmental circumstances. Histone acetylation is a post-translational modification (PTMs) important in controlling reversible changes in chromatin structure and gene activity. Plants have three distinct families of HDACs, designated as HD2, SRT2, and RPD3. RPD3 is a key class of HDACs and is present in all eukaryotes. In plants, the RPD3 family of HDACs plays an important role in various complex developmental processes and stress responses. The members of the RPD3 family interact with other members of HDACs and transcription factors as part of the repressor complex, establishing regulatory networks in response to various environmental cues. This review provides a brief overview of the studies on histone acetylation dynamics in yeast, plants, and mammals, as well as the regulation of gene transcription. We also provide an overview of the advancements in plant histone acetylation dynamics. Besides, we highlight RPD3's contribution to plant growth, development, and its function in plant stress responses. A comprehensive knowledge of the functions performed by the HDAC family might provide adaptable research viewpoints to improve crop productivity and stress tolerance.