THE ROLE OF PLANT SECONDARY METABOLITES IN STRESS ADAPTATION: A BIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Plants, as sessile organisms, have evolved sophisticated biochemical mechanisms to survive under various abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Among these mechanisms, secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds play crucial roles in defense, adaptation, and ecological interactions. This study aims to provide a comprehensive biological analysis of how plant secondary metabolites contribute to stress adaptation. A mixed-method approach combining literature review, molecular data analysis, and case studies of drought, salinity, and pathogen stress was employed. The results highlight that secondary metabolites regulate antioxidant activity, osmotic balance, and signaling pathways that mitigate stress impacts. Furthermore, their ecological functions extend to pollinator attraction and herbivore deterrence, illustrating their multidimensional role in plant survival. The findings underscore the importance of secondary metabolites as both evolutionary adaptations and potential resources for biotechnology, agriculture, and pharmacology.