The cytochrome P450 superfamily: Key players in plant development and defense

The cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily is the largest enzymatic protein family in plants, and it also widely exists in mammals, fungi, bacteria, insects and so on. Members of this superfamily are involved in multiple metabolic pathways with distinct and complex functions, playing important roles in a vast array of reactions. As a result, numerous secondary metabolites are synthesized that function as growth and developmental signals or protect plants from various biotic and abiotic stresses. Here, we summarize the characterization of CYPs, as well as their phylogenetic classification. We also focus on recent advances in elucidating the roles of CYPs in mediating plant growth and development as well as biotic and abiotic stresses responses, providing insights into their potential utilization in plant breeding.