Estrogens and Androgens in Plants: The Last 20 Years of Studies

Abstract

Although the only known steroid hormones in plants are brassinosteroids, interestingly, mammalian steroid hormones such as androgens or estrogens are also part of the plant metabolic profile. This presented review is focused on the progress that has been made in this matter during the last two decades. The presence of testosterone, 17β-estradiol, and other androgens/estrogens in plants (particularly those that can be measured using more advanced techniques) is described. The physiological activity of androgens and estrogens, especially in plants’ stress response, are discussed, together with some possible mechanisms of their action. The current knowledge indicates that although androgens and estrogens do not have the status of hormones in plants, they are physiologically active and can serve as regulators that support the activity of classic hormones in (1) regulating the various processes connected with plant growth and development and (2) the interaction of plants with their environment.