Climate change conditions affect plant growth, net primary productivity,
photosynthetic capability, and other biochemical functions that are essential for normal
metabolism. The stimulation of biosynthesis of secondary metabolites is an important
strategy developed by plants to cope with adverse environmental conditions. Many of
these metabolites display a wide array of biological and pharmacological properties
(e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, anti-allergic, antiviral, and
antibacterial) and, thus, have valuable applications as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals,
cosmetics, fragrances, and food additives. The aim of this review is to present an
overview of the impact of abiotic stress factors in the biosynthesis of secondary
metabolites by in vitro cultures. Our literature survey showed that plant tissue culture
has been an effective tool to understand plant response to abiotic stresses, such as
drought, salinity, temperature, nutrient deficiency, or exposure to ultraviolet radiation,
which is of particular interest in the actual scenario of climate change conditions.
Furthermore, this technique appears as an environmentally friendly alternative for the
production of high-value secondary metabolites for many applications.
Keywords: Drought, Environmental changes, In vitro cultures, Phenolics, Secondary metabolites, Temperature.