Plant hormones, or phytohormones, are small-molecule signaling compounds that regulate plant growth, development, and stress responses by modulating gene expression. Recent research suggests that currently recognized phytohormones are part of a broader group of regulatory metabolites with signaling properties, reflecting the diversity of plant secondary metabolism. This diversity has evolved to address challenges like sessility and unique plant biology. A major gap in understanding is the lack of knowledge about the direct targets of these compounds. The study of jasmonate, once considered a floral scent, has shown it to be a potent transcriptional regulator, offering insights into other phytohormones. This research highlights the importance of regulatory metabolite–protein interactions in plant biology. Jasmonate is derived from primary metabolites and acts through specific receptors to modulate gene expression. It is involved in stress responses, defense, and growth regulation. The biosynthesis of jasmonate involves several enzymatic steps, including the conversion of polyunsaturated fatty acids to jasmonoyl-isoleucine (JA-Ile). Mutant studies have revealed the importance of jasmonate in plant development and defense. For example, jasmonate-deficient mutants exhibit male sterility and increased susceptibility to pathogens. These findings underscore the role of jasmonate in plant biology. The regulation of jasmonate biosynthesis and catabolism is crucial for plant responses to stress. Mechanical wounding and other stress-related signals trigger rapid accumulation of endogenous jasmonates, leading to defense responses. Jasmonate biosynthesis is tightly regulated, with factors involved in transport and catabolism playing key roles. The availability of jasmonate is a limiting factor for the formation of JA-Ile, highlighting the importance of regulatory control. Understanding the roles of jasmonate and other regulatory metabolites in plant biology is essential for improving crop productivity and resilience. Research into these compounds provides insights into their functions and mechanisms, contributing to the broader understanding of plant signaling and metabolism. The study of jasmonate and other phytohormones offers valuable knowledge for developing crops that are more productive, nutritious, and adapted to changing environmental conditions.Plant hormones, or phytohormones, are small-molecule signaling compounds that regulate plant growth, development, and stress responses by modulating gene expression. Recent research suggests that currently recognized phytohormones are part of a broader group of regulatory metabolites with signaling properties, reflecting the diversity of plant secondary metabolism. This diversity has evolved to address challenges like sessility and unique plant biology. A major gap in understanding is the lack of knowledge about the direct targets of these compounds. The study of jasmonate, once considered a floral scent, has shown it to be a potent transcriptional regulator, offering insights into other phytohormones. This research highlights the importance of regulatory metabolite–protein interactions in plant biology. Jasmonate is derived from primary metabolites and acts through specific receptors to modulate gene expression. It is involved in stress responses, defense, and growth regulation. The biosynthesis of jasmonate involves several enzymatic steps, including the conversion of polyunsaturated fatty acids to jasmonoyl-isoleucine (JA-Ile). Mutant studies have revealed the importance of jasmonate in plant development and defense. For example, jasmonate-deficient mutants exhibit male sterility and increased susceptibility to pathogens. These findings underscore the role of jasmonate in plant biology. The regulation of jasmonate biosynthesis and catabolism is crucial for plant responses to stress. Mechanical wounding and other stress-related signals trigger rapid accumulation of endogenous jasmonates, leading to defense responses. Jasmonate biosynthesis is tightly regulated, with factors involved in transport and catabolism playing key roles. The availability of jasmonate is a limiting factor for the formation of JA-Ile, highlighting the importance of regulatory control. Understanding the roles of jasmonate and other regulatory metabolites in plant biology is essential for improving crop productivity and resilience. Research into these compounds provides insights into their functions and mechanisms, contributing to the broader understanding of plant signaling and metabolism. The study of jasmonate and other phytohormones offers valuable knowledge for developing crops that are more productive, nutritious, and adapted to changing environmental conditions.