Plant viral infections, traditionally considered harmful, can, under certain conditions such as drought, transition into mutualism and enhance plant resistance to abiotic stress. This review focuses on the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying this shift, including the roles of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and catalase, as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS). The evolutionary adaptation of viruses to drought conditions reveals changes in the expression of plant genes that promote stress tolerance, including osmoregulation, hydration, and the reduction of oxidative damage. This review highlights the agricultural potential of utilizing viral infections as a means of mitigating drought conditions and possibly as a biological substitute for irrigation systems and chemical additives. While these studies open new avenues for sustainable agriculture, further work is required to understand the broader environmental impacts and potential risks associated with evolutionary selection. This approach offers a multifaceted perspective on harnessing natural mechanisms to address the adverse effects of climate change.
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