Revisiting the molecular mechanisms and adaptive strategies associated with drought stress tolerance in common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

•75 MQTLs for wheat drought tolerance were identified by a meta-analysis.•Both morphological and physiological alterations addressed to drought response in wheat.•Drought tolerance of wheat involves in multiple morphological and physiological characters.•A complicated signaling network functions in the regulation of wheat drought tolerance with a number of key genes participated. Drought is a misfortune for crops. Wheat is a staple crop and its sustainability and adequate supply are vital to food security around the world. The development of drought-tolerant cultivars in wheat is a major challenge to breeders, therefore there is dire need of time to determine the genetic components of drought tolerance in wheat crop. To overcome intense drought stress, wheat plants undergo certain morphological and physiological changes and develop certain genetically adaptive mechanisms. Since wheat is an allotriploid with three sub-genomes, its adaptability molecular mechanisms to drought, particularly needs scientific attention. Here, we systematically and comprehensively reviewed the causes of wheat drought tolerance and the consequences for wheat physiology and genetics. The quantitative trait loci (QTL), which be function on the control of wheat drought tolerance, were comprehensively summarized by a meta-analysis and total 75 meta-QTLs (MQTLs) were identified. In addition, we summarized the genes tightly involved in wheat drought tolerance, and several important genes were selected to elucidate signaling networks related to the wheat drought tolerance. This review is integral to growing suitable strains in the worldwide arid regions to improve wheat yields under recent global climate change scenarios.