Catalanins

Catalanins are a class of small signaling molecules that play a role in plant defense mechanisms. They are derived from amino acids and are found in various plant species, particularly in legumes. Catalanins are known to be involved in the plant's response to pathogens and herbivores. When a plant is under attack, it can release catalanins, which can then act as signals to induce defensive pathways in the same plant or even in neighboring plants. This signaling process can trigger the production of compounds that deter pests or inhibit the growth of microbes. Research suggests that catalanins may also influence root development and nodulation in legumes, contributing to nutrient acquisition. The specific structures and functions of different catalanins are still being investigated, but their importance in plant-environment interactions is increasingly recognized. Their involvement in inter-plant communication and defense makes them a subject of interest in agricultural and ecological studies.