The effect mechanism of drought and frost damage on plant water transportxylem embolism and cavitation fatigue

Water is the fundamental element for the maintenance of vital activities and physiological biochemical processes within plants. Efficient and safe water transport through xylem to maintain an adequate water balance is crucial for the growth, survival, and distribution of plants. Drought and frost damage, the two most common forms of abiotic stress, result in xylem embolism, which obstructs water transportation and decreases hydraulic conductivity, thereby threatening plant growth and development. We summarize the formation and propagation mechanisms of xylem embolism caused by drought and frost. We further analyze xylem resistance to drought-induced and freeze-thaw-induced embolism and its relationship with xylem conduit anatomy. We also explore the fatigue phenomena caused by drought and frost (cavitation fatigue and frost fatigue) and their underlying mechanisms. Lastly, based on the current forefront and advancements in plant hydraulics research, several prospective research directions are suggested.