Release patterns and potential utility of herbivore-induced plant volatiles in crops: A review

Herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) are synthesized and released from damaged plants, playing a critical role in the interactions among plants, herbivorous pests, and their natural enemies. Recent research has focused on the regularity in the synthesis and release patterns of certain HIPVs, which are consistent with the behaviors of herbivores or their natural enemies. However, their instability has prevented the widespread use of HIPVs for crop protection. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the regular patterns of HIPVs synthesis and release, including the associated regulatory mechanisms and influence of endogenous/environmental factors. We also describe the potential utility of HIPVs for enhancing agricultural production. The information provided herein will help researchers better understand the functions and ecological significance of HIPVs, which may lead to the development of viable methods for monitoring and detecting agricultural pests and diseases, with implications for pest and disease control.