A Bibliometric Analysis of Stress Memory and Priming in Plants: Research Trends, Mechanisms, and Implications for Agricultural Resilience
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Abstract
This bibliometric analysis explores research trends and collaborative networks surrounding the concepts of "stress memory" and "priming" in plants, with a focus on their implications for agricultural resilience. A total of 270 studies published between 2007 and 2024 were analyzed, revealing a growing interest in this relatively new area of plant science. While the global research output saw a slight decline in 2021, publication activity rebounded in 2024, reaching a peak of 51 documents in 2024. The majority of studies were published in Frontiers in Plant Science, and prominent authors such as Isabel Bäurle contributed significantly to the field. Co-authorship analysis highlighted strong international collaboration, particularly between Germany and China, with Germany emerging as the leading country in both publication volume and collaborative efforts. Keyword analysis indicated that "priming" was the most frequently used term, reflecting its central role in research on plant stress memory. The focus on genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic mechanisms provides valuable insights into how plants "remember" stress and adapt to recurring challenges. These findings underscore the multidisciplinary nature of the field, with contributions from plant physiology, molecular biology, and agricultural sciences. The results emphasize the importance of continued global collaboration and the integration of theoretical and applied research to develop climate-resilient crops. Furthermore, the high proportion of open-access publications highlights the increasing accessibility of this research, fostering wider dissemination and application of findings. This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of stress memory and priming research, offering valuable directions for future studies aimed at enhancing agricultural sustainability and resilience.
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References
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