calcium’s role in enhancing wheat plasma membrane stability under salinity

Abstract

Salinity is one of the most serious abiotic stresses limiting agricultural productivity worldwide, with wheat Triticum aestivum L. being particularly vulnerable. Calcium, beyond its recognized role in soil amelioration, plays a pivotal role at the cellular level in mitigating the harmful effects of salinity. Under salt stress, calcium functions as a secondary messenger that regulates ion transport and signaling, thereby maintaining ion homeostasis within the cytoplasm. It also stabilizes the plasma membrane by reducing electrolyte leakage, enhancing membrane integrity, and protecting cells from oxidative damage induced by excessive sodium ions. These protective mechanisms collectively contribute to improving the physiological performance and stress tolerance of wheat plants grown under saline conditions. Understanding calcium’s role in maintaining plasma membrane stability provides valuable insights into developing strategies for enhancing wheat resilience to salinity stress.