New insights into the cellular mechanisms of plant growth at elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations

Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration (CO₂]) significantly influences plant growth, development, and biomass. Increased photosynthesis rate, together with lower stomatal conductance, has been identified as the key factors that stimulate plant growth at elevated CO₂] (eCO₂]). However, variations in photosynthesis and stomatal conductance alone cannot fully explain the dynamic changes in plant growth. Stimulation of photosynthesis at eCO₂] is always associated with post‐photosynthetic secondary metabolic processes that include carbon and nitrogen metabolism, cell cycle functions, and hormonal regulation. Most studies have focused on photosynthesis and stomatal conductance in response to eCO₂], despite the emerging evidence of eCO₂]'s role in moderating secondary metabolism in plants. In this review, we briefly discuss the effects of eCO₂] on photosynthesis and stomatal conductance and then focus on the changes in other cellular mechanisms and growth processes at eCO₂] in relation to plant growth and development. Finally, knowledge gaps in understanding plant growth responses to eCO₂] have been identified with the aim of improving crop productivity under a CO₂ rich atmosphere.