SHINING A LIGHT ON THE IMPACT OF LIGHT STRESS: EXPLORING ITS EFFECTS ON ANIMALS, CELLS AND PLANTS

BY BENJAMIN DANOIS

As researchers and plant enthusiasts, we tend to think of the various forms of abiotic stress that can affect plants, such as cold or heat, drought and nutrient imbalances. However, in recent years, more attention has been given to the concept of light stress and its impact on plant health.

When plants are exposed to excessive light, they can generate reactive oxidation species (ROS) that can harm the function of photosystems. This can disrupt the process of photochemistry, which is crucial for the plant’s survival. While light stress can damage plants at the cellular level, it can also accumulate to affect productivity at the whole plant level.

As we delve deeper into the study of light stress, it’s essential to understand its impact on animals, cells and plants. In animal studies, light stress has been linked to the development of various diseases, including cancer, as well as disruptions in sleep patterns. Research has shown that exposure to excessive light can damage the retina and impair vision, leading to blindness in severe cases.

In cellular studies, researchers have discovered that light stress can have significant impacts on cellular metabolism, leading to changes in gene expression and the activation of stress-related signalling pathways. These changes can ultimately affect cellular health and lead to diseases such as cancer.

In plant studies, researchers have focused on understanding how plants dissipate excessive energy and mitigate the effects of light stress. Studies have shown that plants have a remarkable ability to dissipate excess energy through mechanisms such as non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and the xanthophyll cycle. These mechanisms help plants to protect their photosystems from the harmful effects of ROS and maintain efficient photosynthesis.

While we tend to focus on other forms of abiotic stress, light stress is an essential area of research that is gaining increasing attention. Understanding the impacts of light stress within the three main sections of animal, cell and plant studies will allow us to develop strategies to mitigate its effects and promote better health and productivity.

Here is a glimpse of what we can have in store in this issue of the SEB Magazine...

Features

In “Light of their lives”, Alex Evans will shine a light on some recent research into the world of animal–light interactions (page 14).

Alex also delves into the Cell realm by exploring the important cell–environment relationships, as highlighted by some researchers in “Looking on the bright side” (page 18).

And to conclude, in “Light stress–too much of a good thing”, Caroline Woods will take a look at fascinating new insights into the exquisite photoprotective mechanisms that help plants to stay safe from light stress (page 22).

OUTREACH, EDUCATION AND DIVERSITY

Our brilliant OED team have spoiled us with a very interesting series of articles we invite you to read. To begin, discover a paper about the unique women who have shaped the SEB (page 48). Then, read about a very special visit to the SEB archives (page 50). On page 52, you can find a very useful resource about navigating the academic hiring process and career transitions. And finally, Caroline Wood showcases “What does a sustainable lab look like?” (page 54).

Members Highlights

This issue’s spotlight section features brilliant achievements realised by our members! Discover them and their fantastic work (page 08).

Spotlight

In honour of our Society’s momentous centenary, we are thrilled to present a fantastic opportunity to explore our esteemed journals in greater depth. To commemorate this milestone, we proudly feature brilliant papers contributed by each of the Editors-inChief of our five prestigious journals: Conservation Physiology, The Plant Journal, Biotechnology Journal, Plant Direct and the Journal of Experimental Botany (page 32-36).

Because this issue serves as a prelude to the highly anticipated Centenary Conference, we are delighted to present the profiles of all our esteemed President’s Medalists and highlight our exceptional Plenary Lecturers of 2023.

Additionally, we are privileged to share captivating interviews with notable biologists from our vibrant community. Prepare to be inspired by their insightful perspectives and groundbreaking research!

Centenary Meeting

Countdown to the Society’s Most Important Conference Begins

With just a few weeks remaining, the anticipation builds for the Society’s most significant conference of the year. We kindly remind you that registration is still open, and we encourage you to secure your spot promptly. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event!

For more details and to register, please visit: www.sebiology.org/events/seb-centenaryconference-2023/registration.html

The entire SEB staff is eagerly awaiting your presence at the SEB Centenary Conference. We look forward to welcoming you there!