Abstract
Flavonoids are a special category of hydroxylated phenolic compounds
having an aromatic ring structure. Among several subclasses of
flavonoids, the flavonol subclass contains a special compound –
quercetin. Quercetin is a bioactive natural compound built upon the
flavon structure, i.e., C6(ring A)-C3(ring C)-C6(ring B). It facilitates
several plant physiological processes such as seed germination, pollen
growth, antioxidant machinery, and photosynthesis, as well as induces
proper plant growth and development. Quercetin is a powerful
antioxidant, so it potently provides plant tolerance against several
biotic and abiotic stresses. This review highlights the role of
quercetin in increasing several physiological and biochemical processes
in under stress and non-stress environments. Additionally, this review
briefly assesses the role of quercetin in mitigating biotic and abiotic
stresses, e.g., salt, heavy metal, and UV stress. Furthermore, the
biosynthesis of flavonoids along with fresh advances and regulation in
its signaling pathway, as well as the role of quercetin in plant
signaling is also discussed.