The article reviews the role of (p)ppGpp, a key regulator in bacterial stress responses, and its impact on various cellular processes. It highlights the evolution of the stringent response concept from its initial discovery to its current understanding. The review discusses the mechanisms of (p)ppGpp synthesis and breakdown, the regulation of RSH (Rel/Spo homolog) enzymes, and the diverse effects of (p)ppGpp on bacterial physiology, including growth inhibition, DNA replication, phage replication, and virulence. The authors emphasize the complexity of (p)ppGpp's actions, which can be both direct and indirect, and the involvement of factors like DksA in modulating these effects. The review also explores the pathogenicity of bacteria in the absence of (p)ppGpp and the role of (p)ppGpp in controlling gene expression through interactions with RNA polymerase. Despite significant progress, many fundamental questions remain about the detailed mechanisms and regulatory networks involving (p)ppGpp.The article reviews the role of (p)ppGpp, a key regulator in bacterial stress responses, and its impact on various cellular processes. It highlights the evolution of the stringent response concept from its initial discovery to its current understanding. The review discusses the mechanisms of (p)ppGpp synthesis and breakdown, the regulation of RSH (Rel/Spo homolog) enzymes, and the diverse effects of (p)ppGpp on bacterial physiology, including growth inhibition, DNA replication, phage replication, and virulence. The authors emphasize the complexity of (p)ppGpp's actions, which can be both direct and indirect, and the involvement of factors like DksA in modulating these effects. The review also explores the pathogenicity of bacteria in the absence of (p)ppGpp and the role of (p)ppGpp in controlling gene expression through interactions with RNA polymerase. Despite significant progress, many fundamental questions remain about the detailed mechanisms and regulatory networks involving (p)ppGpp.