Silicon (Si) is the second most abundant element in the earth crust. In recent times several studies proved that Si is beneficial to growth and development of plants. For example, amorphous Si in plants forms the cuticle-Si double layer which decreases evapotranspiration, increases light-interception, enhances photosynthetic rate, and enables rigidity as well as erectness to the plants. Furthermore, deposition of Si in the root reduces apoplastic bypass flow and gives selectivity on the transmembrane region. Si is also involved in plant stress mitigation by scavenging ROS. These examples are inline with a recent announcement by the International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI) that Si is a ‘quasi-essential’ element for plants.
Although Si plays an important role in all type of plants, its molecular mechanism(s) on plant physiology and stress tolerance is yet to be deciphered in detail. A clear understanding of the biology of Si in plans will lead to increased plant productivity in model and non-model plants.
In this Research Topic, we aim to provide a platform for all plant scientists working in the area of silicon supplementation for crop improvement to shed more light on the molecular regulation of Si in plants. We welcome all article types published by Frontiers in Plant Science that contribute to the biology of Si nutrition in plants. Articles are solicited that cover the following topics:
1. Silicon role in the increasing the yield and ameliorating plant stress.
2. Silicon mobility and translocation under mineral deficient condition.
3. How does silicon induce antioxidant enzymes?
4. Involvement of Silicon in plant defense, herbivory and cell signaling.
5. Selective permeability during metal toxicity

Please note: Frontiers in Plant Science does not accept solely descriptive studies - studies which report responses to treatments and descriptive reports of ‘Omics studies will not be considered if they do not progress biological understanding of these responses. .

Submit your idea

Impact

Frontiers in Plant Science

Participating Journals

Impact