Auxin response factors (ARFs) are key regulators of plant growth and stress tolerance. ARFs are transcription factors that mediate auxin signaling by binding to DNA response elements (AuxREs) and regulating gene expression. They play critical roles in organogenesis, development, and stress responses. Recent research has elucidated the molecular mechanisms of ARF function, including their DNA-binding domains, regulation by the C-terminal PB1 domain, and interactions with other transcription factors. ARFs are involved in various developmental processes, such as root morphogenesis, leaf development, and stress tolerance. The canonical auxin signaling pathway involves the interaction between ARFs, Aux/IAA proteins, and the TIR1/AFB complex, leading to the degradation of Aux/IAA proteins and the activation of auxin-responsive genes. Non-canonical auxin signaling pathways also exist, where ARFs can function independently of protein degradation. ARFs are essential for root development, including primary root formation, lateral root initiation, and adventitious root formation. In rice and maize, ARFs regulate root architecture and development, as well as stress responses. In leaves, ARFs influence photosynthesis, leaf shape, and inclination. Understanding ARF function is crucial for improving plant growth and stress tolerance through genetic manipulation.Auxin response factors (ARFs) are key regulators of plant growth and stress tolerance. ARFs are transcription factors that mediate auxin signaling by binding to DNA response elements (AuxREs) and regulating gene expression. They play critical roles in organogenesis, development, and stress responses. Recent research has elucidated the molecular mechanisms of ARF function, including their DNA-binding domains, regulation by the C-terminal PB1 domain, and interactions with other transcription factors. ARFs are involved in various developmental processes, such as root morphogenesis, leaf development, and stress tolerance. The canonical auxin signaling pathway involves the interaction between ARFs, Aux/IAA proteins, and the TIR1/AFB complex, leading to the degradation of Aux/IAA proteins and the activation of auxin-responsive genes. Non-canonical auxin signaling pathways also exist, where ARFs can function independently of protein degradation. ARFs are essential for root development, including primary root formation, lateral root initiation, and adventitious root formation. In rice and maize, ARFs regulate root architecture and development, as well as stress responses. In leaves, ARFs influence photosynthesis, leaf shape, and inclination. Understanding ARF function is crucial for improving plant growth and stress tolerance through genetic manipulation.