Osmoprotectants: Protecting Plants from Drought Stress

Adjustments in osmoprotectants, such as ammonium compounds, sugars and sugar alcohols, and amino acids, can maintain osmotic balance and the integrity of cell membranes. These osmoprotectants protect cellular organelles by promoting water uptake potential and facilitating enzyme activity in plants experiencing drought stress. Through two mechanisms, these osmoprotectants alleviate the negative effects of drought in plants - firstly, by enhancing the antioxidant defense system, and secondly, by regulating ion homeostasis. Osmotically active molecules, including proline, soluble sugars, and soluble proteins, decrease cell permeability under stress and maintain inorganic ion concentrations to ensure normal plant growth.