Research advances in the role of central carbon metabolic pathways in plant growth, development and stress responses

The central carbon metabolic pathway is a sugar metabolic pathway widely present in plants and consists of glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and the pentose phosphate pathway. It primarily regulates the catabolic process of carbohydrates during plant respiration and plays a crucial role in plant growth, development, and stress responses. This study reviews the functions of the central carbon metabolic pathway in regulating plant growth, development, and stress responses, focusing on the stress resistance mechanisms mediated by this pathway, including abiotic stresses such as temperature, water, and ion stresses, as well as biotic stresses such as pathogens and insect pests. In addition, the application potential of the central carbon metabolic pathway in plant molecular breeding and development of novel green agricultural technologies is discussed. In-depth research on the central carbon metabolic pathways in plants holds significant scientific and practical implications, providing new insights and directions for studies on plant stress resistance.