WUSCHEL Transcription Factor: From Stem Cell Maintenance to Crop Improvement

The WUSCHEL (WUS) transcription factor, long recognized as a master regulator of stem cell maintenance in the shoot apical meristem (SAM), has expanded in significance as a multifaceted tool in plant biotechnology. With an emphasis on its new uses in crop regeneration, somatic embryogenesis (SE), stress tolerance, and developmental regulation in cereals, legumes, and other plant species, this review summarizes recent developments on WUS function outside of Arabidopsis. We emphasize how insights from WUS biology can be translated into practical strategies to improve yield, adaptability, and resilience, while also enhancing in vitro tissue culture systems. The objective of this review is to establish WUS as a crucial molecular target for future crop genetic improvement and sustainable farming methods by highlighting the current knowledge gaps and suggesting future directions.