| Summary: | GIGANTEA (GI) is a conserved nuclear protein crucial for orchestrating the clock-associated feedback loop in the circadian system by integrating light input, modulating gating mechanisms, and regulating circadian clock resetting. It serves as a core component which transmits blue light signals for circadian rhythm resetting and overseeing floral initiation. Beyond circadian functions, <i>GI</i> influences various aspects of plant development (chlorophyll accumulation, hypocotyl elongation, stomatal opening, and anthocyanin metabolism). <i>GI</i> has also been implicated to play a pivotal role in response to stresses such as freezing, thermomorphogenic stresses, salinity, drought, and osmotic stresses. Positioned at the hub of complex genetic networks, <i>GI</i> interacts with hormonal signaling pathways like abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellin (GA), salicylic acid (SA), and brassinosteroids (BRs) at multiple regulatory levels. This intricate interplay enables <i>GI</i> to balance stress responses, promoting growth and flowering, and optimize plant productivity. This review delves into the multifaceted roles of <i>GI</i>, supported by genetic and molecular evidence, and recent insights into the dynamic interplay between flowering and stress responses, which enhance plants’ adaptability to environmental challenges.
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