In a groundbreaking review published in the journal *Molecules*, researchers from diverse fields have uncovered the fascinating dual role of plant hormones, or phytohormones, in animal systems. Led by Agata Kućko from the Department of Plant Physiology at the Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW in Poland, the study delves into how these compounds, traditionally known for their role in plant growth and development, are now being recognized for their potential health benefits and risks in animals, including humans.
Phytohormones, including auxin, abscisic acid, cytokinins, jasmonates, ethylene, strigolactones, and gibberellins, have long been studied for their ability to regulate plant life cycles. However, emerging research suggests that these molecules can also exert significant biological effects in non-plant systems. “Although some phytohormones can be harmful, their health-promoting potential is rapidly gaining attention,” Kućko explains. This has sparked a growing interest in exploring plant hormones as novel therapeutic agents, particularly in precision medicine.
The review brings together a multidisciplinary team—plant physiologists, a pharmacist, and a medical doctor—to analyze the latest insights surrounding the health-related impacts of plant hormones on animal systems. The study highlights the remarkable regulatory roles of key phytohormones in animal physiology, with a special focus on their implications for human health. “Our discussion reveals how phytohormones may help address critical health challenges, particularly those related to aging populations, including neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and cancers,” Kućko notes.
The potential applications of phytohormones extend beyond agriculture, offering promising avenues for future drug development and nutritional therapies. As the global population ages, the need for innovative solutions to combat chronic diseases becomes increasingly urgent. Phytohormones, with their diverse biological activities, could play a pivotal role in addressing these health challenges.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. The energy sector, in particular, could benefit from the development of new, plant-based therapies that promote health and well-being. As the understanding of phytohormone action deepens, it may not just revolutionize agriculture but also open new frontiers in medicine and human health.
Published in the reputable journal *Molecules* (translated from Polish as “Molecules”), this review underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing our understanding of plant hormones and their potential applications in human health. As the research community continues to explore the therapeutic potential of phytohormones, the possibilities for innovation and discovery are vast. This study not only sheds light on the complex interplay between plants and animals but also paves the way for groundbreaking advancements in the field of precision medicine.