Abstract: In this review, the molecular mechanisms by which plants respond to extreme temperature, drought, flooding and salt stress, through an overview of existing studies were summarized. Combining the effects of various stress on plant growth and development, the signal perception mode and signal transduction pathways were introduced. Meanwhile, the regulatory mechanisms of critical transcription factors in regulating gene expression and important secondary metabolites in coordinating stress tolerance were outlined. Finally, an outlook on future research was prospected focusing on the regulatory mechanism of mult-signaling network modules and sustainable development of agriculture.

Key words: abiotic stress, signal response, gene expression regulation, tolerance, molecular mechanisms of stress resistance