Now more than ever, understanding the genetics and evolution of the gene mechanisms and the networks of different molecular pathways acting on plant abiotic stress tolerance has an important role in the finding of new solutions and approaches able to contribute to a good equilibrium among human needs, food security, and future strategies for mitigating the effects of global climate changes. In this context, a major role for science and research is very welcome. Scientists have the relevant task of increasing our knowledge in the complex area of plant genetics and genomics, the genes responsive to specific abiotic stresses (such as drought, salts, or heat) and their inducible promoters, and various gene expression control and modulation mechanisms, including alternative splicing, micro-RNA interference, post-transcriptional mRNA decay, and post-translational protein degradation. At the same time, evolution has played a key role in the establishment of the current plant molecular traits, so that major insights into the genetic diversity producing different alleles, adaptation, phylogenesis, and evolution of genomes and gene families can be translated and applied as tools for developing new tolerant plant varieties able to satisfy our needs, in terms of food security, protection of the planet, and conservation and recovery of natural resources such as water and soils. In this context, Patrizia Galeffi,  senior scientist of the Agrifood Sustainability, Quality and Safety Laboratory at ENEA CR Casaccia, has edited the editorial presentation of this special issue: "Genetics and Evolution of Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants" and the publication of 10 articles, as guest editor for the GENES
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