Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol , IF:94.444 , 2024 May , V25 (5) : P340-358 doi: 10.1038/s41580-023-00691-y
Structure and growth of plant cell walls.
Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA. dcosgrove@psu.edu.
Plant cells build nanofibrillar walls that are central to plant growth, morphogenesis and mechanics. Starting from simple sugars, three groups of polysaccharides, namely, cellulose, hemicelluloses and pectins, with very different physical properties are assembled by the cell to make a strong yet extensible wall. This Review describes the physics of wall growth and its regulation by cellular processes such as cellulose production by cellulose synthase, modulation of wall pH by plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase, wall loosening by expansin and signalling by plant hormones such as auxin and brassinosteroid. In addition, this Review discusses the nuanced roles, properties and interactions of cellulose, matrix polysaccharides and cell wall proteins and describes how wall stress and wall loosening cooperatively result in cell wall growth.
PMID: 38102449
Cell Res , IF:25.617 , 2024 May , V34 (5) : P343-344 doi: 10.1038/s41422-023-00921-0
The new horizon of plant auxin signaling via cell-surface co-receptors.
Department of Molecular Biology and Centre for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. sheen@molbio.mgh.harvard.edu.
PMID: 38182889
Trends Plant Sci , IF:18.313 , 2024 May doi: 10.1016/j.tplants.2024.04.004
Emerging multiple function of B-RAFs in plants.
Institute of Advanced Biotechnology and School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China. Electronic address: wangpc@sustech.edu.cn.
Recent studies have revealed that B-subgroup rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (RAF) kinases have pivotal roles in hormone signaling and stress responses across a wide range of organisms. In this forum, I explore their evolution and diverse signaling pathways, highlighting the significance of B-RAF kinases in plant growth and plant-environment interactions while discussing open questions for future research.
PMID: 38719711
Nat Plants , IF:15.793 , 2024 May doi: 10.1038/s41477-024-01706-y
Parental conflict driven regulation of endosperm cellularization by a family of Auxin Response Factors.
Department of Plant Reproductive Biology and Epigenetics, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam, Germany.; Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Centre for Plant Biology, Uppsala, Sweden.; INRAE Centre Ile-de-France - Versailles-Saclay, France, Versailles-Sacley, France.; Department of Plant Reproductive Biology and Epigenetics, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam, Germany. koehler@mpimp-golm.mpg.de.; Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Centre for Plant Biology, Uppsala, Sweden. koehler@mpimp-golm.mpg.de.
The endosperm is a reproductive tissue supporting embryo development. In most flowering plants, the initial divisions of endosperm nuclei are not succeeded by cellularization; this process occurs only after a specific number of mitotic cycles have taken place. The timing of cellularization significantly influences seed viability and size. Previous research implicated auxin as a key factor in initiating nuclear divisions and determining the timing of cellularization. Here we uncover the involvement of a family of clustered auxin response factors (cARFs) as dosage-sensitive regulators of endosperm cellularization. cARFs, maternally expressed and paternally silenced, are shown to induce cellularization, thereby restricting seed growth. Our findings align with the predictions of the parental conflict theory, suggesting that cARFs represent major molecular targets in this conflict. We further demonstrate a recurring amplification of cARFs in the Brassicaceae, suggesting an evolutionary response to parental conflict by reinforcing maternal control over endosperm cellularization. Our study highlights that antagonistic parental control on endosperm cellularization converges on auxin biosynthesis and signalling.
PMID: 38806655
Nat Commun , IF:14.919 , 2024 May , V15 (1) : P3875 doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-47753-z
Phytohormone profiling in an evolutionary framework.
Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Rozvojova 263, 165 02, Prague 6, Czechia.; Department of Experimental Plant Biology, Charles University, Vinicna 5, 128 44, Prague 2, Czechia.; Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Rozvojova 263, 165 02, Prague 6, Czechia. skokan@ueb.cas.cz.; Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.; Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Rozvojova 263, 165 02, Prague 6, Czechia. petrasek@ueb.cas.cz.; Department of Experimental Plant Biology, Charles University, Vinicna 5, 128 44, Prague 2, Czechia. petrasek@ueb.cas.cz.
The genomes of charophyte green algae, close relatives of land plants, typically do not show signs of developmental regulation by phytohormones. However, scattered reports of endogenous phytohormone production in these organisms exist. We performed a comprehensive analysis of multiple phytohormones in Viridiplantae, focusing mainly on charophytes. We show that auxin, salicylic acid, ethylene and tRNA-derived cytokinins including cis-zeatin are found ubiquitously in Viridiplantae. By contrast, land plants but not green algae contain the trans-zeatin type cytokinins as well as auxin and cytokinin conjugates. Charophytes occasionally produce jasmonates and abscisic acid, whereas the latter is detected consistently in land plants. Several phytohormones are excreted into the culture medium, including auxin by charophytes and cytokinins and salicylic acid by Viridiplantae in general. We note that the conservation of phytohormone biosynthesis and signaling pathways known from angiosperms does not match the capacity for phytohormone biosynthesis in Viridiplantae. Our phylogenetically guided analysis of established algal cultures provides an important insight into phytohormone biosynthesis and metabolism across Streptophyta.
PMID: 38719800
Annu Rev Cell Dev Biol , IF:13.827 , 2024 May doi: 10.1146/annurev-cellbio-111822-115334
Plant Cell Wall Loosening by Expansins.
Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; email: dcosgrove@psu.edu.
Expansins comprise an ancient group of cell wall proteins ubiquitous in land plants and their algal ancestors. During cell growth, they facilitate passive yielding of the wall's cellulose networks to turgor-generated tensile stresses, without evidence of enzymatic activity. Expansins are also implicated in fruit softening and other developmental processes and in adaptive responses to environmental stresses and pathogens. The major expansin families in plants include alpha-expansins (EXPAs), which act on cellulose-cellulose junctions, and beta-expansins, which can act on xylans. EXPAs mediate acid growth, which contributes to wall enlargement by auxin and other growth agents. The genomes of diverse microbes, including many plant pathogens, also encode expansins designated expansin-like X. Expansins are proposed to disrupt noncovalent bonding between laterally aligned polysaccharides (notably cellulose), facilitating wall loosening for a variety of biological roles.
PMID: 38724021
Mol Plant , IF:13.164 , 2024 May , V17 (5) : P696-698 doi: 10.1016/j.molp.2024.04.007
Auxin signaling gets oxidative to promote root hair growth.
Fundacion Instituto Leloir & IIBBA-CONICET, Av. Patricias Argentinas 435, Buenos Aires C1405BWE, Argentina.; Centro de Biotecnologia Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile; ANID, Millennium Science Initiative Program, Millennium Nucleus for the Development of Super Adaptable Plants (MN-SAP), Santiago, Chile.; Centro de Biotecnologia Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile; ANID, Millennium Science Initiative Program, Millennium Institute for Integrative Biology (iBio), Santiago, Chile.; Fundacion Instituto Leloir & IIBBA-CONICET, Av. Patricias Argentinas 435, Buenos Aires C1405BWE, Argentina; Centro de Biotecnologia Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile; ANID, Millennium Science Initiative Program, Millennium Nucleus for the Development of Super Adaptable Plants (MN-SAP), Santiago, Chile; ANID, Millennium Science Initiative Program, Millennium Institute for Integrative Biology (iBio), Santiago, Chile. Electronic address: jestevez@leloir.or.ar.
PMID: 38654520
Mol Plant , IF:13.164 , 2024 May , V17 (5) : P772-787 doi: 10.1016/j.molp.2024.04.002
FERONIA-mediated TIR1/AFB2 oxidation stimulates auxin signaling in Arabidopsis.
School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.; National Facility for Protein Science Shanghai, Zhangjiang Lab, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China.; School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China. Electronic address: cli@bio.ecnu.edu.cn.
The phytohormone auxin plays a pivotal role in governing plant growth and development. Although the TRANSPORT INHIBITOR RESPONSE1/AUXIN SIGNALING F-BOX (TIR1/AFB) receptors function in both the nucleus and cytoplasm, the mechanism governing the distribution of TIR1/AFBs between these cellular compartments remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that auxin-mediated oxidation of TIR1/AFB2 is essential for their targeting to the nucleus. We showed that small active molecules, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO), are indispensable for the nucleo-cytoplasmic distribution of TIR1/AFB2 in trichoblasts and root hairs. Further studies revealed that this process is regulated by the FERONIA receptor kinase-NADPH oxidase signaling pathway. Interestingly, ROS and NO initiate oxidative modifications in TIR1(C140/516) and AFB2(C135/511), facilitating their subsequent nuclear import. The oxidized forms of TIR1(C140/516) and AFB2(C135/511) play a crucial role in enhancing the function of TIR1 and AFB2 in transcriptional auxin responses. Collectively, our study reveals a novel mechanism by which auxin stimulates the transport of TIR1/AFB2 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, orchestrated by the FERONIA-ROS signaling pathway.
PMID: 38581129
Plant Cell , IF:11.277 , 2024 May , V36 (6) : P2359-2374 doi: 10.1093/plcell/koae074
ENHANCER OF SHOOT REGENERATION1 promotes de novo root organogenesis after wounding in Arabidopsis leaf explants.
Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.; Research Institute of Basic Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.; Plant Genomics and Breeding Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
Plants have an astonishing ability to regenerate new organs after wounding. Here, we report that the wound-inducible transcription factor ENHANCER OF SHOOT REGENERATION1 (ESR1) has a dual mode of action in activating ANTHRANILATE SYNTHASE ALPHA SUBUNIT1 (ASA1) expression to ensure auxin-dependent de novo root organogenesis locally at wound sites of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) leaf explants. In the first mode, ESR1 interacts with HISTONE DEACETYLASE6 (HDA6), and the ESR1-HDA6 complex directly binds to the JASMONATE-ZIM DOMAIN5 (JAZ5) locus, inhibiting JAZ5 expression through histone H3 deacetylation. As JAZ5 interferes with the action of ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR109 (ERF109), the transcriptional repression of JAZ5 at the wound site allows ERF109 to activate ASA1 expression. In the second mode, the ESR1 transcriptional activator directly binds to the ASA1 promoter to enhance its expression. Overall, our findings indicate that the dual biochemical function of ESR1, which specifically occurs near wound sites of leaf explants, maximizes local auxin biosynthesis and de novo root organogenesis in Arabidopsis.
PMID: 38445764
Plant Cell , IF:11.277 , 2024 May , V36 (6) : P2310-2327 doi: 10.1093/plcell/koae071
Nonspecific phospholipases C3 and C4 interact with PIN-FORMED2 to regulate growth and tropic responses in Arabidopsis.
College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, P.R. China.; Department of Biology, University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63121, USA.; Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA.; Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, P.R. China.
The dynamic changes in membrane phospholipids affect membrane biophysical properties and cell signaling, thereby influencing numerous biological processes. Nonspecific phospholipase C (NPC) enzymes hydrolyze common phospholipids to release diacylglycerol (DAG), which is converted to phosphatidic acid (PA) and other lipids. In this study, 2 Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) tandemly arrayed genes, NPC3 and NPC4, were identified as critical factors modulating auxin-controlled plant growth and tropic responses. Moreover, NPC3 and NPC4 were shown to interact with the auxin efflux transporter PIN-FORMED2 (PIN2). The loss of NPC3 and NPC4 enhanced the endocytosis and vacuolar degradation of PIN2, which disrupted auxin gradients and slowed gravitropic and halotropic responses. Furthermore, auxin-triggered activation of NPC3 and NPC4 is required for the asymmetric PA distribution that controls PIN2 trafficking dynamics and auxin-dependent tropic responses. Collectively, our study reveals an NPC-derived PA signaling pathway in Arabidopsis auxin fluxes that is essential for fine-tuning the balance between root growth and environmental responses.
PMID: 38442314
Plant Cell , IF:11.277 , 2024 May , V36 (5) : P1410-1428 doi: 10.1093/plcell/koae054
An auxin research odyssey: 1989-2023.
Department of Horticultural Science and the Microbial and Plant Genomics Institute, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA.; Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27008, USA.
The phytohormone auxin is at times called the master regulator of plant processes and has been shown to be a central player in embryo development, the establishment of the polar axis, early aspects of seedling growth, as well as growth and organ formation during later stages of plant development. The Plant Cell has been key, since the inception of the journal, to developing an understanding of auxin biology. Auxin-regulated plant growth control is accomplished by both changes in the levels of active hormones and the sensitivity of plant tissues to these concentration changes. In this historical review, we chart auxin research as it has progressed in key areas and highlight the role The Plant Cell played in these scientific developments. We focus on understanding auxin-responsive genes, transcription factors, reporter constructs, perception, and signal transduction processes. Auxin metabolism is discussed from the development of tryptophan auxotrophic mutants, the molecular biology of conjugate formation and hydrolysis, indole-3-butyric acid metabolism and transport, and key steps in indole-3-acetic acid biosynthesis, catabolism, and transport. This progress leads to an expectation of a more comprehensive understanding of the systems biology of auxin and the spatial and temporal regulation of cellular growth and development.
PMID: 38382088
Plant Cell , IF:11.277 , 2024 May , V36 (5) : P1582-1583 doi: 10.1093/plcell/koae058
Retain in the membrane: Tinkering with the BRX-PAX-PIP5K auxin efflux machinery affects vascular tissue differentiation.
Assistant Features Editor, The Plant Cell, American Society of Plant Biologists.; Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umea Plant Science Centre, Umea, Sweden.
PMID: 38377470
Plant Cell , IF:11.277 , 2024 May , V36 (6) : P2201-2218 doi: 10.1093/plcell/koae043
Maternal nitric oxide homeostasis impacts female gametophyte development under optimal and stress conditions.
State Key Laboratory for Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.; Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory, Yazhou, Sanya 572025, China.; Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
In adverse environments, the number of fertilizable female gametophytes (FGs) in plants is reduced, leading to increased survival of the remaining offspring. How the maternal plant perceives internal growth cues and external stress conditions to alter FG development remains largely unknown. We report that homeostasis of the stress signaling molecule nitric oxide (NO) plays a key role in controlling FG development under both optimal and stress conditions. NO homeostasis is precisely regulated by S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR). Prior to fertilization, GSNOR protein is exclusively accumulated in sporophytic tissues and indirectly controls FG development in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). In GSNOR null mutants, NO species accumulated in the degenerating sporophytic nucellus, and auxin efflux into the developing FG was restricted, which inhibited FG development, resulting in reduced fertility. Importantly, restoring GSNOR expression in maternal, but not gametophytic tissues, or increasing auxin efflux substrate significantly increased the proportion of normal FGs and fertility. Furthermore, GSNOR overexpression or added auxin efflux substrate increased fertility under drought and salt stress. These data indicate that NO homeostasis is critical to normal auxin transport and maternal control of FG development, which in turn determine seed yield. Understanding this aspect of fertility control could contribute to mediating yield loss under adverse conditions.
PMID: 38376990
Plant Cell , IF:11.277 , 2024 May , V36 (6) : P2176-2200 doi: 10.1093/plcell/koae041
The Myb73-GDPD2-GA2ox1 transcriptional regulatory module confers phosphate deficiency tolerance in soybean.
Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Grain Crops, College of Agronomy, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China.; State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Key Laboratory of Soybean Molecular Design Breeding, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150081, China.; National Center for Soybean Improvement, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.; State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Center of Integrative Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.; Zhengzhou National Subcenter for Soybean Improvement, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou 450002, China.; School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
Phosphorus is indispensable in agricultural production. An increasing food supply requires more efficient use of phosphate due to limited phosphate resources. However, how crops regulate phosphate efficiency remains largely unknown. Here, we identified a major quantitative trait locus, qPE19, that controls 7 low-phosphate (LP)-related traits in soybean (Glycine max) through linkage mapping and genome-wide association studies. We identified the gene responsible for qPE19 as GLYCEROPHOSPHORYL DIESTER PHOSPHODIESTERASE2 (GmGDPD2), and haplotype 5 represents the optimal allele favoring LP tolerance. Overexpression of GmGDPD2 significantly affects hormone signaling and improves root architecture, phosphate efficiency and yield-related traits; conversely, CRISPR/Cas9-edited plants show decreases in these traits. GmMyb73 negatively regulates GmGDPD2 by directly binding to its promoter; thus, GmMyb73 negatively regulates LP tolerance. GmGDPD2 physically interacts with GA 2-oxidase 1 (GmGA2ox1) in the plasma membrane, and overexpressing GmGA2ox1 enhances LP-associated traits, similar to GmGDPD2 overexpression. Analysis of double mutants for GmGDPD2 and GmGA2ox1 demonstrated that GmGDPD2 regulates LP tolerance likely by influencing auxin and gibberellin dose-associated cell division in the root. These results reveal a regulatory module that plays a major role in regulating LP tolerance in soybeans and is expected to be utilized to develop phosphate-efficient varieties to enhance soybean production, particularly in phosphate-deficient soils.
PMID: 38345432
Plant Cell , IF:11.277 , 2024 May , V36 (5) : P1791-1805 doi: 10.1093/plcell/koae023
Ectopic assembly of an auxin efflux control machinery shifts developmental trajectories.
Department of Plant Molecular Biology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland.; Institute of Experimental Botany, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 165 02, Czech Republic.
Polar auxin transport in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) root tip maintains high auxin levels around the stem cell niche that gradually decrease in dividing cells but increase again once they transition toward differentiation. Protophloem differentiates earlier than other proximal tissues and employs a unique auxin "canalization" machinery that is thought to balance auxin efflux with retention. It consists of a proposed activator of PIN-FORMED (PIN) auxin efflux carriers, the cAMP-, cGMP- and Calcium-dependent (AGC) kinase PROTEIN KINASE ASSOCIATED WITH BRX (PAX); its inhibitor, BREVIS RADIX (BRX); and PHOSPHATIDYLINOSITOL-4-PHOSPHATE-5-KINASE (PIP5K) enzymes, which promote polar PAX and BRX localization. Because of a dynamic PAX-BRX-PIP5K interplay, the net cellular output of this machinery remains unclear. In this study, we deciphered the dosage-sensitive regulatory interactions among PAX, BRX, and PIP5K by their ectopic expression in developing xylem vessels. The data suggest that the dominant collective output of the PAX-BRX-PIP5K module is a localized reduction in PIN abundance. This requires PAX-stimulated clathrin-mediated PIN endocytosis upon site-specific phosphorylation, which distinguishes PAX from other AGC kinases. An ectopic assembly of the PAX-BRX-PIP5K module is sufficient to cause cellular auxin retention and affects root growth vigor by accelerating the trajectory of xylem vessel development. Our data thus provide direct evidence that local manipulation of auxin efflux alters the timing of cellular differentiation in the root.
PMID: 38267818
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A , IF:11.205 , 2024 May , V121 (22) : Pe2313216121 doi: 10.1073/pnas.2313216121
ZmPILS6 is an auxin efflux carrier required for maize root morphogenesis.
Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011.; Biology Department, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710.; Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011.; Botany and Plant Sciences Department, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521.
Plant root systems play a pivotal role in plant physiology and exhibit diverse phenotypic traits. Understanding the genetic mechanisms governing root growth and development in model plants like maize is crucial for enhancing crop resilience to drought and nutrient limitations. This study focused on identifying and characterizing ZmPILS6, an annotated auxin efflux carrier, as a key regulator of various crown root traits in maize. ZmPILS6-modified roots displayed reduced network area and suppressed lateral root formation, which are desirable traits for the "steep, cheap, and deep" ideotype. The research revealed that ZmPILS6 localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum and plays a vital role in controlling the spatial distribution of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA or "auxin") in primary roots. The study also demonstrated that ZmPILS6 can actively efflux IAA when expressed in yeast. Furthermore, the loss of ZmPILS6 resulted in significant proteome remodeling in maize roots, particularly affecting hormone signaling pathways. To identify potential interacting partners of ZmPILS6, a weighted gene coexpression analysis was performed. Altogether, this research contributes to the growing knowledge of essential genetic determinants governing maize root morphogenesis, which is crucial for guiding agricultural improvement strategies.
PMID: 38781209
Curr Biol , IF:10.834 , 2024 May , V34 (10) : P2039-2048.e3 doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.03.064
Root hairs facilitate rice root penetration into compacted layers.
Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, SJTU-University of Adelaide Joint Centre for Agriculture and Health, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240 Shanghai, China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center of Agri-Seeds/School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240 Shanghai, China.; Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, SJTU-University of Adelaide Joint Centre for Agriculture and Health, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240 Shanghai, China.; Plant and Crop Science Division, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham LE12 5RD, UK.; Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (North China), Ministry of Agriculture, College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.; Plant and Crop Science Division, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham LE12 5RD, UK. Electronic address: bipin.pandey@nottingham.ac.uk.; Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, SJTU-University of Adelaide Joint Centre for Agriculture and Health, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240 Shanghai, China. Electronic address: huang19880901@sjtu.edu.cn.
Compacted soil layers adversely affect rooting depth and access to deeper nutrient and water resources, thereby impacting climate resilience of crop production and global food security. Root hair plays well-known roles in facilitating water and nutrient acquisition. Here, we report that root hair also contributes to root penetration into compacted layers. We demonstrate that longer root hair, induced by elevated auxin response during a root compaction response, improves the ability of rice roots to penetrate harder layers. This compaction-induced auxin response in the root hair zone is dependent on the root apex-expressed auxin synthesis gene OsYUCCA8 (OsYUC8), which is induced by compaction stress. This auxin source for root hair elongation relies on the auxin influx carrier AUXIN RESISTANT 1 (OsAUX1), mobilizing this signal from the root apex to the root hair zone. Mutants disrupting OsYUC8 and OsAUX1 genes exhibit shorter root hairs and weaker penetration ability into harder layers compared with wild type (WT). Root-hair-specific mutants phenocopy these auxin-signaling mutants, as they also exhibit an attenuated root penetration ability. We conclude that compaction stress upregulates OsYUC8-mediated auxin biosynthesis in the root apex, which is subsequently mobilized to the root hair zone by OsAUX1, where auxin promotes root hair elongation, improving anchorage of root tips to their surrounding soil environment and aiding their penetration ability into harder layers.
PMID: 38653244
J Hazard Mater , IF:10.588 , 2024 May , V473 : P134719 doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134719
NtARF11 positively regulates cadmium tolerance in tobacco by inhibiting expression of the nitrate transporter NtNRT1.1.
State Key Laboratory of Tobacco Cultivation, College of tobacco Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China. Electronic address: jiahongfang@126.com.; State Key Laboratory of Tobacco Cultivation, College of tobacco Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China.; State Key Laboratory of Tobacco Cultivation, College of tobacco Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.; State Key Laboratory of Tobacco Cultivation, College of tobacco Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China. Electronic address: shf_email2011@126.com.; State Key Laboratory of Tobacco Cultivation, College of tobacco Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China. Electronic address: ycszp@henau.edu.cn.
Heavy metal cadmium (Cd) is widespread in contaminated soil and an important factor limiting plant growth. NO(3)(-) (nitrate) affects Cd uptake and thus changes Cd tolerance in plants; however, the underlying molecular regulatory mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. Here, we analyzed a novel gene, NtARF11 (auxin response factor), which regulates Cd tolerance in tobacco via the NO(3)(-) uptake pathway, through experiments with NtARF11-knockout and NtARF11-overexpression transgenic tobacco lines. NtARF11 was highly expressed under Cd stress in tobacco plants. Under Cd stress, overexpression of NtARF11 enhanced Cd tolerance in tobacco compared to that in wild-type tobacco, as shown by the low Cd concentration, high chlorophyll concentration, and low accumulation of reactive oxygen species in NtARF11-overexpressing tobacco. Moreover, low NO(3)(-) concentrations were observed in NtARF11-overexpressing tobacco plants. Further analyses revealed direct binding of NtARF11 to the promoter of the nitrate transporter NtNRT1.1, thereby negatively regulating its expression in tobacco. Notably, NtNRT1.1 knockout reduced NO(3)(-) uptake, which resulted in low Cd concentrations in tobacco. Altogether, these results demonstrate that the NtARF11-NtNRT1.1 module functions as a positive regulator of Cd tolerance by reducing the Cd uptake in tobacco, providing new insights for improving Cd tolerance of plants through genetic engineering.
PMID: 38797073
J Hazard Mater , IF:10.588 , 2024 May , V473 : P134587 doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134587
Suppression of OsSAUR2 gene expression immobilizes soil arsenic bioavailability by modulating root exudation and rhizosphere microbial assembly in rice.
The Key Laboratory for Quality Improvement of Agricultural Products of Zhejiang Province, College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China.; The Key Laboratory for Quality Improvement of Agricultural Products of Zhejiang Province, College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China. Electronic address: liuqp@zafu.edu.cn.
One of the factors influencing the behavior of arsenic (As) in environment is microbial-mediated As transformation. However, the detailed regulatory role of gene expression on the changes of root exudation, rhizosphere microorganisms, and soil As occurrence forms remains unclear. In this study, we evidence that loss-of-function of OsSAUR2 gene, a member of the SMALL AUXIN-UP RNA family in rice, results in significantly higher As uptake in roots but greatly lower As accumulation in grains via affecting the expression of OsLsi1, OsLsi2 in roots and OsABCC1 in stems. Further, the alteration of OsSAUR2 expression extensively affects the metabolomic of root exudation, and thereby leading to the variations in the composition of rhizosphere microbial communities in rice. The microbial community in the rhizosphere of Ossaur2 plants strongly immobilizes the occurrence forms of As in soil. Interestingly, Homovanillic acid (HA) and 3-Coumaric acid (CA), two differential metabolites screened from root exudation, can facilitate soil iron reduction, enhance As bioavailability, and stimulate As uptake and accumulation in rice. These findings add our further understanding in the relationship of OsSAUR2 expression with the release of root exudation and rhizosphere microbial assembly under As stress in rice, and provide potential rice genetic resources and root exudation in phytoremediation of As-contaminated paddy soil.
PMID: 38772107
J Hazard Mater , IF:10.588 , 2024 May , V469 : P133954 doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133954
Integrated genome-transcriptome analysis unveiled the mechanism of Debaryomyces hansenii-mediated arsenic stress amelioration in rice.
CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow 226001, India.; CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow 226001, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.; CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow 226001, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India. Electronic address: s.srivastava@nbri.res.in.
Globally, rice is becoming more vulnerable to arsenic (As) pollution, posing a serious threat to public food safety. Previously Debaryomyces hansenii was found to reduce grain As content of rice. To better understand the underlying mechanism, we performed a genome analysis to identify the key genes in D. hansenii responsible for As tolerance and plant growth promotion. Notably, genes related to As resistance (ARR, Ycf1, and Yap) were observed in the genome of D. hansenii. The presence of auxin pathway and glutathione metabolism-related genes may explain the plant growth-promoting potential and As tolerance mechanism of this novel yeast strain. The genome annotation of D. hansenii indicated that it contains a repertoire of genes encoding antioxidants, well corroborated with the in vitro studies of GST, GR, and glutathione content. In addition, the effect of D. hansenii on gene expression profiling of rice plants under As stress was also examined. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database revealed 307 genes, annotated in D. hansenii-treated rice, related to metabolic pathways (184), photosynthesis (12), glutathione (10), tryptophan (4), and biosynthesis of secondary metabolite (117). Higher expression of regulatory elements like AUX/IAA and WRKY transcription factors (TFs), and defense-responsive genes dismutases, catalases, peroxiredoxin, and glutaredoxins during D. hansenii+As exposure was also observed. Combined analysis revealed that D. hansenii genes are contributing to stress mitigation in rice by supporting plant growth and As-tolerance. The study lays the foundation to develop yeast as a beneficial biofertilizer for As-prone areas.
PMID: 38484657
New Phytol , IF:10.151 , 2024 Jun , V242 (6) : P2746-2762 doi: 10.1111/nph.19766
A lateral organ boundaries domain transcription factor acts downstream of the auxin response factor 2 to control nodulation and root architecture in Medicago truncatula.
Instituto de Biotecnologia y Biologia Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Centro Cientifico y Tecnologico-La Plata, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas, 1900, La Plata, Argentina.; Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), CNRS, INRA, Universities Paris-Sud, Evry and Paris-Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cite, University of Paris-Saclay, Batiment 630, 91405, Orsay, France.; Laboratoire des Interactions Plantes-Microorganismes, Universite de Toulouse, INRAE, CNRS, 31326, Castanet-Tolosan, France.; Instituto de Agrobiotecnologia del Litoral, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina.
Legume plants develop two types of root postembryonic organs, lateral roots and symbiotic nodules, using shared regulatory components. The module composed by the microRNA390, the Trans-Acting SIRNA3 (TAS3) RNA and the Auxin Response Factors (ARF)2, ARF3, and ARF4 (miR390/TAS3/ARFs) mediates the control of both lateral roots and symbiotic nodules in legumes. Here, a transcriptomic approach identified a member of the Lateral Organ Boundaries Domain (LBD) family of transcription factors in Medicago truncatula, designated MtLBD17/29a, which is regulated by the miR390/TAS3/ARFs module. ChIP-PCR experiments evidenced that MtARF2 binds to an Auxin Response Element present in the MtLBD17/29a promoter. MtLBD17/29a is expressed in root meristems, lateral root primordia, and noninfected cells of symbiotic nodules. Knockdown of MtLBD17/29a reduced the length of primary and lateral roots and enhanced lateral root formation, whereas overexpression of MtLBD17/29a produced the opposite phenotype. Interestingly, both knockdown and overexpression of MtLBD17/29a reduced nodule number and infection events and impaired the induction of the symbiotic genes Nodulation Signaling Pathway (NSP) 1 and 2. Our results demonstrate that MtLBD17/29a is regulated by the miR390/TAS3/ARFs module and a direct target of MtARF2, revealing a new lateral root regulatory hub recruited by legumes to act in the root nodule symbiotic program.
PMID: 38666352
New Phytol , IF:10.151 , 2024 Jun , V242 (5) : P2059-2076 doi: 10.1111/nph.19737
Genome-wide association study and network analysis of in vitro transformation in Populus trichocarpa support key roles of diverse phytohormone pathways and cross talk.
Department of Forest Ecosystems & Society, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.; School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.; Statistics Department, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.; Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, 37830, USA.; Center for Bioenergy Innovation, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, 37830, USA.; Bredesen Center for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA.
Wide variation in amenability to transformation and regeneration (TR) among many plant species and genotypes presents a challenge to the use of genetic engineering in research and breeding. To help understand the causes of this variation, we performed association mapping and network analysis using a population of 1204 wild trees of Populus trichocarpa (black cottonwood). To enable precise and high-throughput phenotyping of callus and shoot TR, we developed a computer vision system that cross-referenced complementary red, green, and blue (RGB) and fluorescent-hyperspectral images. We performed association mapping using single-marker and combined variant methods, followed by statistical tests for epistasis and integration of published multi-omic datasets to identify likely regulatory hubs. We report 409 candidate genes implicated by associations within 5 kb of coding sequences, and epistasis tests implicated 81 of these candidate genes as regulators of one another. Gene ontology terms related to protein-protein interactions and transcriptional regulation are overrepresented, among others. In addition to auxin and cytokinin pathways long established as critical to TR, our results highlight the importance of stress and wounding pathways. Potential regulatory hubs of signaling within and across these pathways include GROWTH REGULATORY FACTOR 1 (GRF1), PHOSPHATIDYLINOSITOL 4-KINASE beta1 (PI-4Kbeta1), and OBF-BINDING PROTEIN 1 (OBP1).
PMID: 38650352
New Phytol , IF:10.151 , 2024 Jun , V242 (5) : P1996-2010 doi: 10.1111/nph.19728
Ethylene controls three-dimensional growth involving reduced auxin levels in the moss Physcomitrium patens.
College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, 100048, China.; Institute of Radiation Technology, Beijing Academy of Science and Technology, Beijing, 100050, China.; Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
The conquest of land by plants was concomitant with, and possibly enabled by, the evolution of three-dimensional (3D) growth. The moss Physcomitrium patens provides a model system for elucidating molecular mechanisms in the initiation of 3D growth. Here, we investigate whether the phytohormone ethylene, which is believed to have been a signal before land plant emergence, plays a role in 3D growth regulation in P. patens. We report ethylene controls 3D gametophore formation, based on results from exogenously applied ethylene and genetic manipulation of PpEIN2, which is a central component in the ethylene signaling pathway. Overexpression (OE) of PpEIN2 activates ethylene responses and leads to earlier formation of gametophores with fewer gametophores produced thereafter, phenocopying ethylene-treated wild-type. Conversely, Ppein2 knockout mutants, which are ethylene insensitive, show initially delayed gametophore formation with more gametophores produced later. Furthermore, pharmacological and biochemical analyses reveal auxin levels are decreased in the OE lines but increased in the knockout mutants. Our results suggest that evolutionarily, ethylene and auxin molecular networks were recruited to build the plant body plan in ancestral land plants. This might have played a role in enabling ancient plants to acclimate to the continental surfaces of the planet.
PMID: 38571393
New Phytol , IF:10.151 , 2024 May , V242 (3) : P1098-1112 doi: 10.1111/nph.19689
A WRI1-dependent module is essential for the accumulation of auxin and lipid in somatic embryogenesis of Arabidopsis thaliana.
National Key Laboratory of Wheat Improvement, College of Life Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, 271018, China.
The potential for totipotency exists in all plant cells; however, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Earlier findings have revealed that the overexpression of LEAFY COTYLEDON 2 (LEC2) can directly trigger the formation of somatic embryos on the cotyledons of Arabidopsis. Furthermore, cotyledon cells that overexpress LEC2 accumulate significant lipid reserves typically found in seeds. The precise mechanisms and functions governing lipid accumulation in this process remain unexplored. In this study, we demonstrate that WRINKLED1 (WRI1), the key regulator of lipid biosynthesis, is essential for somatic embryo formation, suggesting that WRI1-mediated lipid biosynthesis plays a crucial role in the transition from vegetative to embryonic development. Our findings indicate a direct interaction between WRI1 and LEC2, which enhances the enrichment of LEC2 at downstream target genes and stimulates their induction. Besides, our data suggest that WRI1 forms a complex with LEC1, LEC2, and FUSCA3 (FUS3) to facilitate the accumulation of auxin and lipid for the somatic embryo induction, through strengthening the activation of YUCCA4 (YUC4) and OLEOSIN3 (OLE3) genes. Our results uncover a regulatory module controlled by WRI1, crucial for somatic embryogenesis. These findings provide valuable insights into our understanding of plant cell totipotency.
PMID: 38515249
New Phytol , IF:10.151 , 2024 May , V242 (3) : P1084-1097 doi: 10.1111/nph.19664
The activation of Arabidopsis axillary buds involves a switch from slow to rapid committed outgrowth regulated by auxin and strigolactone.
Sainsbury Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1LR, UK.
Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis) shoot architecture is largely determined by the pattern of axillary buds that grow into lateral branches, the regulation of which requires integrating both local and systemic signals. Nodal explants - stem explants each bearing one leaf and its associated axillary bud - are a simplified system to understand the regulation of bud activation. To explore signal integration in bud activation, we characterised the growth dynamics of buds in nodal explants in key mutants and under different treatments. We observed that isolated axillary buds activate in two genetically and physiologically separable phases: a slow-growing lag phase, followed by a switch to rapid outgrowth. Modifying BRANCHED1 expression or the properties of the auxin transport network, including via strigolactone application, changed the length of the lag phase. While most interventions affected only the length of the lag phase, strigolactone treatment and a second bud also affected the rapid growth phase. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that the slow-growing lag phase corresponds to the time during which buds establish canalised auxin transport out of the bud, after which they enter a rapid growth phase. Our work also hints at a role for auxin transport in influencing the maximum growth rate of branches.
PMID: 38503686
New Phytol , IF:10.151 , 2024 May , V242 (3) : P988-999 doi: 10.1111/nph.19616
In situ seasonal patterns of root auxin concentrations and meristem length in an arctic sedge.
Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Umea University, 901 87, Umea, Sweden.; Department of Arctic Biology, UNIS - The University Centre in Svalbard, 9171, Longyearbyen, Norway.; Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology, Umea Plant Science Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 901 83, Umea, Sweden.; Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Faculty of Science, Palacky University & Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-78371, Olomouc, Czech Republic.
Seasonal dynamics of root growth play an important role in large-scale ecosystem processes; they are largely governed by growth regulatory compounds and influenced by environmental conditions. Yet, our knowledge about physiological drivers of root growth is mostly limited to laboratory-based studies on model plant species. We sampled root tips of Eriophorum vaginatum and analyzed their auxin concentrations and meristem lengths biweekly over a growing season in situ in a subarctic peatland, both in surface soil and at the permafrost thawfront. Auxin concentrations were almost five times higher in surface than in thawfront soils and increased over the season, especially at the thawfront. Surprisingly, meristem length showed an opposite pattern and was almost double in thawfront compared with surface soils. Meristem length increased from peak to late season in the surface soils but decreased at the thawfront. Our study of in situ seasonal dynamics in root physiological parameters illustrates the potential for physiological methods to be applied in ecological studies and emphasizes the importance of in situ measurements. The strong effect of root location and the unexpected opposite patterns of meristem length and auxin concentrations likely show that auxin actively governs root growth to ensure a high potential for nutrient uptake at the thawfront.
PMID: 38375943
Plant Biotechnol J , IF:9.803 , 2024 May doi: 10.1111/pbi.14372
Light control of three-dimensional chromatin organization in soybean.
National Key Laboratory of Wheat Improvement, Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Shandong, China.; School of Plant Science and Food Security, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.; School of Advanced Agriculture Sciences and School of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Protein and Plant Gene Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
Higher-order chromatin structure is critical for regulation of gene expression. In plants, light profoundly affects the morphogenesis of emerging seedlings as well as global gene expression to ensure optimal adaptation to environmental conditions. However, the changes and functional significance of chromatin organization in response to light during seedling development are not well documented. We constructed Hi-C contact maps for the cotyledon, apical hook and hypocotyl of soybean subjected to dark and light conditions. The resulting high-resolution Hi-C contact maps identified chromosome territories, A/B compartments, A/B sub-compartments, TADs (Topologically Associated Domains) and chromatin loops in each organ. We observed increased chromatin compaction under light and we found that domains that switched from B sub-compartments in darkness to A sub-compartments under light contained genes that were activated during photomorphogenesis. At the local scale, we identified a group of TADs constructed by gene clusters consisting of different numbers of Small Auxin-Upregulated RNAs (SAURs), which exhibited strict co-expression in the hook and hypocotyl in response to light stimulation. In the hypocotyl, RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) regulated the transcription of a SAURs cluster under light via TAD condensation. Our results suggest that the 3D genome is involved in the regulation of light-related gene expression in a tissue-specific manner.
PMID: 38762905
Plant Biotechnol J , IF:9.803 , 2024 May doi: 10.1111/pbi.14370
Evolutionary relationship of moso bamboo forms and a multihormone regulatory cascade involving culm shape variation.
Key Laboratory of State Forestry and Grassland Administration/Beijing on Bamboo and Rattan Science and Technology, Beijing, China.; Institute of Gene Science and Industrialization for Bamboo and Rattan Resources, International Center for Bamboo and Rattan, Beijing, China.; Sanya Research Base, International Centre for Bamboo and Rattan, Sanya, China.
Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) known as Mao Zhu (MZ) in Chinese exhibits various forms with distinct morphological characteristics. However, the evolutionary relationship among MZ forms and the mechanisms of culm shape variation are still lacking. Here, the main differences among MZ forms were identified as culm shape variation, which were confirmed by analysing MZ forms (799 bamboo culms) and MZ (458 bamboo culms) populations. To unravel the genetic basis underlying the morphological variations, 20 MZ forms were subjected to whole-genome resequencing. Further analysis yielded 3 230 107 high-quality SNPs and uncovered low genetic diversity and high genotype heterozygosity associated with MZ forms' formation. By integrating the SNP data of 427 MZ individuals representing 15 geographic regions, the origins of eight MZ forms were successfully traced using the phylogenetic tree and the identified common heterozygous loci. Meanwhile, transcriptomic analysis was performed using shoots from MZ and its two forms with culm shape variation. The results, combined with genomic analyses, demonstrated that hormone signalling related genes played crucial roles in culm variation. Co-expression network analysis uncovered genes associated with multiple plant hormone signal transduction, especially auxin and cytokinin were involved in culm shape variation. Furthermore, the regulatory relationships of a specific transcription factor and their target genes associated with auxin and ethylene signalling were validated by yeast one-hybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and dual-luciferase reporter. Overall, this study provides important insights into the culm shape variation formation in bamboo, which facilitates to breed new varieties with novel culms.
PMID: 38743918
Plant Biotechnol J , IF:9.803 , 2024 Jun , V22 (6) : P1636-1648 doi: 10.1111/pbi.14292
Homoeologous exchanges contribute to branch angle variations in rapeseed: Insights from transcriptome, QTL-seq and gene functional analysis.
Key Laboratory of Cotton and Rapeseed, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Jiangsu Province for Agrobiology/Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China.; Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.; National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement/National Center of Rapeseed Improvement/Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.
Branch angle (BA) is a critical morphological trait that significantly influences planting density, light interception and ultimately yield in plants. Despite its importance, the regulatory mechanism governing BA in rapeseed remains poorly understood. In this study, we generated 109 transcriptome data sets for 37 rapeseed accessions with divergent BA phenotypes. Relative to adaxial branch segments, abaxial segments accumulated higher levels of auxin and exhibited lower expression of six TCP1 homologues and one GA20ox3. A co-expression network analysis identified two modules highly correlated with BA. The modules contained homologues to known BA control genes, such as FUL, YUCCA6, TCP1 and SGR3. Notably, a homoeologous exchange (HE), occurring at the telomeres of A09, was prevalent in large BA accessions, while an A02-C02 HE was common in small BA accessions. In their corresponding regions, these HEs explained the formation of hub gene hotspots in the two modules. QTL-seq analysis confirmed that the presence of a large A07-C06 HE (~8.1 Mb) was also associated with a small BA phenotype, and BnaA07.WRKY40.b within it was predicted as candidate gene. Overexpressing BnaA07.WRKY40.b in rapeseed increased BA by up to 20 degrees , while RNAi- and CRISPR-mediated mutants (BnaA07.WRKY40.b and BnaC06.WRKY40.b) exhibited decreased BA by up to 11.4 degrees . BnaA07.WRKY40.b was exclusively localized to the nucleus and exhibited strong expression correlations with many genes related to gravitropism and plant architecture. Taken together, our study highlights the influence of HEs on rapeseed plant architecture and confirms the role of WRKY40 homologues as novel regulators of BA.
PMID: 38308663
Plant Biotechnol J , IF:9.803 , 2024 May , V22 (5) : P1417-1432 doi: 10.1111/pbi.14276
A newly evolved rice-specific gene JAUP1 regulates jasmonate biosynthesis and signalling to promote root development and multi-stress tolerance.
Molecular and Cell Biology, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.; Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.; Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.; Advanced Plant Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC.; Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.; Department of Agricultural Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.; Genome and Systems Biology Degree Program, National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.; Molecular and Biological Agricultural Sciences, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica and National Chung Hsing University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.; International Bachelor Program of Agribusiness, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC.; Department of Plant Pathology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC.
Root architecture and function are critical for plants to secure water and nutrient supply from the soil, but environmental stresses alter root development. The phytohormone jasmonic acid (JA) regulates plant growth and responses to wounding and other stresses, but its role in root development for adaptation to environmental challenges had not been well investigated. We discovered a novel JA Upregulated Protein 1 gene (JAUP1) that has recently evolved in rice and is specific to modern rice accessions. JAUP1 regulates a self-perpetuating feed-forward loop to activate the expression of genes involved in JA biosynthesis and signalling that confers tolerance to abiotic stresses and regulates auxin-dependent root development. Ectopic expression of JAUP1 alleviates abscisic acid- and salt-mediated suppression of lateral root (LR) growth. JAUP1 is primarily expressed in the root cap and epidermal cells (EPCs) that protect the meristematic stem cells and emerging LRs. Wound-activated JA/JAUP1 signalling promotes crosstalk between the root cap of LR and parental root EPCs, as well as induces cell wall remodelling in EPCs overlaying the emerging LR, thereby facilitating LR emergence even under ABA-suppressive conditions. Elevated expression of JAUP1 in transgenic rice or natural rice accessions enhances abiotic stress tolerance and reduces grain yield loss under a limited water supply. We reveal a hitherto unappreciated role for wound-induced JA in LR development under abiotic stress and suggest that JAUP1 can be used in biotechnology and as a molecular marker for breeding rice adapted to extreme environmental challenges and for the conservation of water resources.
PMID: 38193234
Plant Physiol , IF:8.34 , 2024 May doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiae290
The white lupin trehalase gene LaTRE1 regulates cluster root formation and function under phosphorus deficiency.
Joint International Research Laboratory of Water and Nutrient in Crop and College of JunCao Science and Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Jinshan Fuzhou 350002, China.
Under phosphorus (P) deficiency, white lupin (Lupinus albus L.) forms specialized root structure, called cluster root (CR), to improve soil exploration and nutrient acquisition. Sugar signaling is thought to play a vital role in the development of CR. Trehalose and its associated metabolites are the essential sugar signal molecules that link growth and development to carbon metabolism in plants, however, their roles in the control of CR are still unclear. Here, we investigated the function of the trehalose metabolism pathway by pharmacological and genetic manipulation of the activity of trehalase in white lupin, the only enzyme that degrades trehalose into glucose. Under P deficiency, validamycin A treatment, which inhibits trehalase, led to the accumulation of trehalose and promoted the formation of CR with enhanced organic acid production, whereas overexpression of the white lupin TREHALASE1 (LaTRE1) led to decreased trehalose levels, lateral rootlet density, and organic acid production. Transcriptomic and virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) results revealed that LaTRE1 negatively regulates the formation of CRs, at least partially, by the suppression of LaLBD16, whose putative ortholog in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) acts downstream of ARF7- and ARF19-dependent auxin signaling in lateral root formation. Overall, our findings provide an association between the trehalose metabolism gene LaTRE1 and CR formation and function with respect to organic acid production in white lupin under P deficiency.
PMID: 38805210
Plant Physiol , IF:8.34 , 2024 May doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiae257
Auxin signaling in the cambium promotes tissue adhesion and vascular formation during Arabidopsis graft healing.
Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Ulls grand 1, 765 51 Uppsala, Sweden.
The strong ability of plants to regenerate wounds is exemplified by grafting when two plants are cut and joined together to grow as one. During graft healing, tissues attach, cells proliferate, and the vasculatures connect to form a graft union. The plant hormone auxin plays a central role, and auxin-related mutants perturb grafting success. Here, we investigated the role of individual cell types and their response to auxin during Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) graft formation. By employing a cell-specific inducible misexpression system, we blocked auxin response in individual cell types using the bodenlos mutation. We found that auxin signaling in procambial tissues was critical for successful tissue attachment and vascular differentiation. In addition, we found that auxin signaling was required for cell divisions of the procambial cells during graft formation. Loss of function mutants in cambial pathways also perturbed attachment and phloem reconnection. We propose that cambial and procambial tissues drive tissue attachment and vascular differentiation during successful grafting. Our study thus refines our knowledge of graft development and furthers our understanding of the regenerative role of the cambium.
PMID: 38701036
Plant Physiol , IF:8.34 , 2024 Apr , V195 (1) : P534-551 doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiae081
Molecular regulatory mechanisms of staminate strobilus development and dehiscence in Torreya grandis.
State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311300, China.
Gymnosperms are mostly dioecious, and their staminate strobili undergo a longer developmental period than those of angiosperms. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to identify key genes and pathways involved in staminate strobilus development and dehiscence in Torreya grandis. Through weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we identified fast elongation-related genes enriched in carbon metabolism and auxin signal transduction, whereas dehiscence-related genes were abundant in alpha-linolenic acid metabolism and the phenylpropanoid pathway. Based on WGCNA, we also identified PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTOR4 (TgPIF4) as a potential regulator for fast elongation of staminate strobilus and 2 WRKY proteins (TgWRKY3 and TgWRKY31) as potential regulators for staminate strobilus dehiscence. Multiple protein-DNA interaction analyses showed that TgPIF4 directly activates the expression of TRANSPORT INHIBITOR RESPONSE2 (TgTIR2) and NADP-MALIC ENZYME (TgNADP-ME). Overexpression of TgPIF4 significantly promoted staminate strobilus elongation by elevating auxin signal transduction and pyruvate content. TgWRKY3 and TgWRKY31 bind to the promoters of the lignin biosynthesis gene PHENYLALANINE AMMONIA-LYASE (TgPAL) and jasmonic acid metabolism gene JASMONATE O-METHYLTRANSFERASE (TgJMT), respectively, and directly activate their transcription. Overexpression of TgWRKY3 and TgWRKY31 in the staminate strobilus led to early dehiscence, accompanied by increased lignin and methyl jasmonate levels, respectively. Collectively, our findings offer a perspective for understanding the growth of staminate strobili in gymnosperms.
PMID: 38365225
Plant Physiol , IF:8.34 , 2024 Apr , V195 (1) : P518-533 doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiae071
PECTIN ACETYLESTERASE12 regulates shoot branching via acetic acid and auxin accumulation in alfalfa shoots.
School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.; College of Life Science, Yulin University, Yulin 719000, China.; State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China.; Key Laboratory of Urban Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai 201101, China.
Shoot branching is an important biological trait affecting alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) production, but its development is complicated and the mechanism is not fully clear. In the present study, pectin acetylesterase 12 (MsPAE12) and NAM/ATAF/CUC-domain transcription factor gene (MsNAC73) were isolated from alfalfa. MsPAE12 was highly expressed in shoot apexes, and MsNAC73 was found to be a key transcriptional repressor of MsPAE12 by directly binding to salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) elements in the MsPAE12 promoter. The biological functions of MsPAE12 and MsNAC73 were studied through overexpression (OE) and down-expression (RNAi) of the 2 genes in alfalfa. The numbers of shoot branches increased in MsPAE12-OE lines but decreased in MsPAE12-RNAi and MsNAC73-OE plants, which was negatively related to their indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) accumulation in shoot apexes. Furthermore, the contents of acetic acid (AA) in shoot apexes decreased in MsPAE12-OE plants but increased in MsPAE12-RNAi and MsNAC73-OE plants. The changes of AA contents were positively related to the expression of TRYPTOPHAN AMINOTRANSFERASE 1 (MsTAA1), TRYPTOPHAN AMINOTRANSFERASE-RELATED 2 (MsTAR2), and YUCCA flavin monooxygenase (MsYUCC4) and the contents of tryptophan (Trp), indole-3-pyruvic acid (IPA), and IAA in shoot apexes of MsPAE12-OE, MsPAE12-RNAi, and MsNAC73-OE plants. Exogenous application of AA to wild type (WT) and MsPAE12-OE plants increased Trp, IPA, and IAA contents and decreased branch number. Exogenous IAA suppressed shoot branching in MsPAE12-OE plants, but exogenous IAA inhibitors increased shoot branching in MsPAE12-RNAi plants. These results indicate that the MsNAC73-MsPAE12 module regulates auxin-modulated shoot branching via affecting AA accumulation in shoot apexes of alfalfa.
PMID: 38365203
Plant Physiol , IF:8.34 , 2024 Apr , V195 (1) : P155-169 doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiae050
Molecular basis and evolutionary drivers of endosperm-based hybridization barriers.
Department of Plant Reproductive Biology and Epigenetics, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam 14476, Germany.; Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden.
The endosperm, a transient seed tissue, plays a pivotal role in supporting embryo growth and germination. This unique feature sets flowering plants apart from gymnosperms, marking an evolutionary innovation in the world of seed-bearing plants. Nevertheless, the importance of the endosperm extends beyond its role in providing nutrients to the developing embryo by acting as a versatile protector, preventing hybridization events between distinct species and between individuals with different ploidy. This phenomenon centers on growth and differentiation of the endosperm and the speed at which both processes unfold. Emerging studies underscore the important role played by type I MADS-box transcription factors, including the paternally expressed gene PHERES1. These factors, along with downstream signaling pathways involving auxin and abscisic acid, are instrumental in regulating endosperm development and, consequently, the establishment of hybridization barriers. Moreover, mutations in various epigenetic regulators mitigate these barriers, unveiling a complex interplay of pathways involved in their formation. In this review, we discuss the molecular underpinnings of endosperm-based hybridization barriers and their evolutionary drivers.
PMID: 38298124
Plant Physiol , IF:8.34 , 2024 Apr , V195 (1) : P79-110 doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiad630
A charged existence: A century of transmembrane ion transport in plants.
Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, University of Glasgow, Bower Building, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK.
If the past century marked the birth of membrane transport as a focus for research in plants, the past 50 years has seen the field mature from arcane interest to a central pillar of plant physiology. Ion transport across plant membranes accounts for roughly 30% of the metabolic energy consumed by a plant cell, and it underpins virtually every aspect of plant biology, from mineral nutrition, cell expansion, and development to auxin polarity, fertilization, plant pathogen defense, and senescence. The means to quantify ion flux through individual transporters, even single channel proteins, became widely available as voltage clamp methods expanded from giant algal cells to the fungus Neurospora crassa in the 1970s and the cells of angiosperms in the 1980s. Here, I touch briefly on some key aspects of the development of modern electrophysiology with a focus on the guard cells of stomata, now without dispute the premier plant cell model for ion transport and its regulation. Guard cells have proven to be a crucible for many technical and conceptual developments that have since emerged into the mainstream of plant science. Their study continues to provide fundamental insights and carries much importance for the global challenges that face us today.
PMID: 38163639
Plant Physiol , IF:8.34 , 2024 Apr , V195 (1) : P410-429 doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiad658
A high-resolution gene expression map of the medial and lateral domains of the gynoecium of Arabidopsis.
Unidad de Genomica Avanzada (UGA-LANGEBIO), Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politecnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Irapuato CP 36824, Guanajuato, Mexico.; Department of Cell & Systems Biology, Centre for the Analysis of Genome Evolution and Function, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks St., Toronto, ON M5S 3B2, Canada.; Polytech Nice Sophia, Universite Cote d'Azur, 930 Rte des Colles, 06410 Biot, France.
Angiosperms are characterized by the formation of flowers, and in their inner floral whorl, one or various gynoecia are produced. These female reproductive structures are responsible for fruit and seed production, thus ensuring the reproductive competence of angiosperms. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), the gynoecium is composed of two fused carpels with different tissues that need to develop and differentiate to form a mature gynoecium and thus the reproductive competence of Arabidopsis. For these reasons, they have become the object of study for floral and fruit development. However, due to the complexity of the gynoecium, specific spatio-temporal tissue expression patterns are still scarce. In this study, we used precise laser-assisted microdissection and high-throughput RNA sequencing to describe the transcriptional profiles of the medial and lateral domain tissues of the Arabidopsis gynoecium. We provide evidence that the method used is reliable and that, in addition to corroborating gene expression patterns of previously reported regulators of these tissues, we found genes whose expression dynamics point to being involved in cytokinin and auxin homeostasis and in cell cycle progression. Furthermore, based on differential gene expression analyses, we functionally characterized several genes and found that they are involved in gynoecium development. This resource is available via the Arabidopsis eFP browser and will serve the community in future studies on developmental and reproductive biology.
PMID: 38088205
Sci Total Environ , IF:7.963 , 2024 Jun , V929 : P172693 doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172693
Mechanism of flavonols on detoxification, migration and transformation of indium in rhizosphere system.
School of Life Sciences, Qilu Normal University, Jinan 250200, China.; School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, China; Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China. Electronic address: 14016@sdjzu.edu.cn.; Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China.; School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, China.; School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, China. Electronic address: zbinzhang@yeah.net.
Soil contamination by toxic heavy metal induces serious environmental hazards. In recent years, the use of indium (In) in semiconductor products has increased considerably and the release of In is inevitable, which will pose great risk to the ecosystem. The interaction between metal and plants which are the fundamental components of all ecosystems are an indispensable aspect of indium assessment and remediation. The role of flavonols, which is essential to plant resistance to In stress, remains largely unknown. FLS1 related lines of A. thaliana (Col, fls1-3 and OE) were exposed to In stress in soil and flavonols as root exudates were analyzed in exogenous application test. The accumulation and release of flavonols could be induced by In stress. However, flavonols exhibited different function in vivo and in vitro of plant. The basic function of flavonols was to affect root morphology via regulating auxin, but being intervened by In stress. The synthesis and accumulation of flavonols in vivo could activate the antioxidant system and the metal detoxification system to alleviate the toxic effects of In on plant. In addition, plants could make phone calls to rhizosphere microbes for help when exposed to In. Flavonols in vitro might act as the information transmission. Combination of endogenous and exogenous flavonols could affect the migration and transformation of In in soil-plant system via metal complexation and transportation pathway.
PMID: 38663607
Plant Cell Environ , IF:7.228 , 2024 May doi: 10.1111/pce.14975
Diverse geotropic responses in the orchid family.
Biotechnology Center in Southern Taiwan, Academia Sinica, Tainan, Taiwan.; Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.; Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Science, Faculty of Science of Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic.; Department of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
In epiphytes, aerial roots are important to combat water-deficient, nutrient-poor, and high-irradiance microhabitats. However, whether aerial roots can respond to gravity and whether auxin plays a role in regulating aerial root development remain open-ended questions. Here, we investigated the gravitropic response of the epiphytic orchid Phalaenopsis aphrodite. Our data showed that aerial roots of P. aphrodite failed to respond to gravity, and this was correlated with a lack of starch granules/statolith sedimentation in the roots and the absence of the auxin efflux carrier PIN2 gene. Using an established auxin reporter, we discovered that auxin maximum was absent in the quiescent center of aerial roots of P. aphrodite. Also, gravity failed to trigger auxin redistribution in the root caps. Hence, loss of gravity sensing and gravity-dependent auxin redistribution may be the genetic factors contributing to aerial root development. Moreover, the architectural and functional innovations that achieve fast gravitropism in the flowering plants appear to be lost in both terrestrial and epiphytic orchids, but are present in the early diverged orchid subfamilies. Taken together, our findings provide physiological and molecular evidence to support the notion that epiphytic orchids lack gravitropism and suggest diverse geotropic responses in the orchid family.
PMID: 38809156
Plant Cell Environ , IF:7.228 , 2024 Jun , V47 (6) : P2058-2073 doi: 10.1111/pce.14853
Phytochrome-interacting factors play shared and distinct roles in regulating shade avoidance responses in Populus trees.
School of Life Sciences, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Plant Resource Conservation and Germplasm Innovation, Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (Chongqing) Science City, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.; Key Laboratory of Eco-environments of Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
Plants adjust their growth and development in response to changing light caused by canopy shade. The molecular mechanisms underlying shade avoidance responses have been widely studied in Arabidopsis and annual crop species, yet the shade avoidance signalling in woody perennial trees remains poorly understood. Here, we first showed that PtophyB1/2 photoreceptors serve conserved roles in attenuating the shade avoidance syndrome (SAS) in poplars. Next, we conducted a systematic identification and characterization of eight PtoPIF genes in Populus tomentosa. Knocking out different PtoPIFs led to attenuated shade responses to varying extents, whereas overexpression of PtoPIFs, particularly PtoPIF3.1 and PtoPIF3.2, led to constitutive SAS phenotypes under normal light and enhanced SAS responses under simulated shade. Notably, our results revealed that distinct from Arabidopsis PIF4 and PIF5, which are major regulators of SAS, the Populus homologues PtoPIF4.1 and PtoPIF4.2 seem to play a minor role in controlling shade responses. Moreover, we showed that PtoPIF3.1/3.2 could directly activate the expression of the auxin biosynthetic gene PtoYUC8 in response to shade, suggesting a conserved PIF-YUC-auxin pathway in modulating SAS in tree. Overall, our study provides insights into shared and divergent functions of PtoPIF members in regulating various aspects of the SAS in Populus.
PMID: 38404129
Chemosphere , IF:7.086 , 2024 Jun , V357 : P141910 doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141910
Biomass ash as soil fertilizers: Supercharging biomass accumulation by shifting auxin distribution.
Yunnan Tobacco Company Qujing Company, Qujing, 655002, Yunnan, China.; College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.; Yunnan Tobacco Company Yuxi Company, Yuxi, 652500, Yunnan, China.; College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China. Electronic address: ylzhang@njau.edu.cn.
Growing quantities of biomass ashes (phyto-ashs) are currently produced worldwide due to the increasing biomass consumption in energy applications. Utilization of phyto-ash in agriculture is environmentally friendly solution. However, mechanisms involving the coordination of carbon metabolism and distribution in plants and soil amendment are not well known. In the present study, tobacco plants were chemically-fertilized with or without 2 per thousand phyto-ash addition. The control had sole chemical fertilizer; for two phyto-ash treatments, the one (T1) received comparable levels of nitrogen, phophorus, and potassium from phyto-ash and fertilizers as the control and another (T2) had 2 per thousand of phyto-ash and the same rates of fertilizers as the control. Compared with the control, phyto-ash addition improved the soil pH from 5.94 to about 6.35; T2 treatment enhanced soil available potassium by 30% but no difference of other elements was recorded among three treatments. Importantly, bacterial (but not fungal) communities were significantly enriched by phyto-ash addition, with the rank of richness as: T2 > T1 > control. Consistent with amelioration of soil properties, phyto-ash promoted plant growth through enlarged leaf area and photosynthesis and induced outgrowth of lateral roots (LRs). Interestingly, increased auxin content was recorded in 2(nd) and 3(rd) leaves and roots under phyto-ash application, also with the rank level as T2 > T1 > control, paralleling with higher transcripts of auxin synthetic genes in the topmost leaf and stronger [(3)H]IAA activity under phyto-ash addition. Furthermore, exogenous application of analog exogenous auxin (NAA) restored leaf area, photosynthesis and LR outgrowth to the similar level as T2 treatment; conversely, application of auxin transport inhibitor (NPA) under T2 treatment retarded leaf and root development. We demonstrated that phyto-ash addition improved soil properties and thus facilitated carbon balance within plants and biomass accumulation in which shifting auxin distribution plays an important role.
PMID: 38582170
J Integr Plant Biol , IF:7.061 , 2024 May , V66 (5) : P1024-1037 doi: 10.1111/jipb.13655
CsRAXs negatively regulate leaf size and fruiting ability through auxin glycosylation in cucumber.
Beijing Key Laboratory of Growth and Developmental Regulation for Protected Vegetable Crops, Department of Vegetable Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
Leaves are the main photosynthesis organ that directly determines crop yield and biomass. Dissecting the regulatory mechanism of leaf development is crucial for food security and ecosystem turn-over. Here, we identified the novel function of R2R3-MYB transcription factors CsRAXs in regulating cucumber leaf size and fruiting ability. Csrax5 single mutant exhibited enlarged leaf size and stem diameter, and Csrax1/2/5 triple mutant displayed further enlargement phenotype. Overexpression of CsRAX1 or CsRAX5 gave rise to smaller leaf and thinner stem. The fruiting ability of Csrax1/2/5 plants was significantly enhanced, while that of CsRAX5 overexpression lines was greatly weakened. Similarly, cell number and free auxin level were elevated in mutant plants while decreased in overexpression lines. Biochemical data indicated that CsRAX1/5 directly promoted the expression of auxin glucosyltransferase gene CsUGT74E2. Therefore, our data suggested that CsRAXs function as repressors for leaf size development by promoting auxin glycosylation to decrease free auxin level and cell division in cucumber. Our findings provide new gene targets for cucumber breeding with increased leaf size and crop yield.
PMID: 38578173
J Integr Plant Biol , IF:7.061 , 2024 May , V66 (5) : P928-942 doi: 10.1111/jipb.13582
Temporal control of the Aux/IAA genes BnIAA32 and BnIAA34 mediates Brassica napus dual shade responses.
Institute of Crop Science, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.; Key Laboratory of Plant Secondary Metabolism and Regulation of Zhejiang Province, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, College of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.; Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Transformation Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
Precise responses to changes in light quality are crucial for plant growth and development. For example, hypocotyls of shade-avoiding plants typically elongate under shade conditions. Although this typical shade-avoidance response (TSR) has been studied in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), the molecular mechanisms underlying shade tolerance are poorly understood. Here we report that B. napus (Brassica napus) seedlings exhibit dual shade responses. In addition to the TSR, B. napus seedlings also display an atypical shade response (ASR), with shorter hypocotyls upon perception of early-shade cues. Genome-wide selective sweep analysis indicated that ASR is associated with light and auxin signaling. Moreover, genetic studies demonstrated that phytochrome A (BnphyA) promotes ASR, whereas BnphyB inhibits it. During ASR, YUCCA8 expression is activated by early-shade cues, leading to increased auxin biosynthesis. This inhibits hypocotyl elongation, as young B. napus seedlings are highly sensitive to auxin. Notably, two non-canonical AUXIN/INDOLE-3-ACETIC ACID (Aux/IAA) repressor genes, BnIAA32 and BnIAA34, are expressed during this early stage. BnIAA32 and BnIAA34 inhibit hypocotyl elongation under shade conditions, and mutations in BnIAA32 and BnIAA34 suppress ASR. Collectively, our study demonstrates that the temporal expression of BnIAA32 and BnIAA34 determines the behavior of B. napus seedlings following shade-induced auxin biosynthesis.
PMID: 37929685
J Exp Bot , IF:6.992 , 2024 May doi: 10.1093/jxb/erae237
ABI3 promotes auxin signalling by regulating SHY2 expression to control primary root growth in response to dehydration stress.
Department of Biotechnology, St. Xavier's College, 30, Mother Teresa Sarani, Kolkata-700016. INDIA.
Plants combat dehydration stress through several adaptive measures including root architectural changes. Here we show that when exposed to varying levels of dehydration stress, primary root growth in Arabidopsis is modulated by regulating root meristem activity. ABA in concert with auxin signalling perceives the stress level and adapts primary root growth accordingly. ABI3, the ABA responsive transcription factor stands at the intersection of ABA and auxin signalling and fine tunes primary root growth in response to dehydration stress. Under low ABA or dehydration stress, induction of ABI3 expression promotes auxin signalling by decreasing expression of SHY2, a negative regulator of auxin response. This further enhances the expression of auxin transporter gene PIN1 and cell cycle gene CYCB1;1, resulting in an increase in primary root meristem size and root length. Higher levels of dehydration stress or ABA repress ABI3 expression and promote ABI5 expression. This elevates SHY2 expression, thereby impairing primary root meristem activity and retarding root growth. Notably, ABI5 can promote SHY2 expression only in the absence of ABI3. Such ABA concentration dependent expression of ABI3 therefore functions as a regulatory sensor of dehydration stress levels and orchestrates primary root growth by coordinating its downstream regulon.
PMID: 38770693
J Exp Bot , IF:6.992 , 2024 May doi: 10.1093/jxb/erae217
Lights, location, action: Shade avoidance signalling over spatial scales.
Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.; Experimental and Computational Plant Development, Institute of Environmental Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Plants growing in dense vegetation stands need to flexibly position their photosynthetic organs to ensure optimal light capture in a competitive environment. They do so through a suite of developmental responses referred to as the shade avoidance syndrome. Belowground, root development is also adjusted in response to aboveground neighbour proximity. Canopies are dynamic and complex environments with heterogenous light cues in the far-red, red, blue and UV spectrum, which can be perceived with photoreceptors by spatially separated plant tissues. Molecular regulation of plant architecture adjustment via PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTOR (PIF) transcription factors and growth-related hormones such as auxin, gibberellic acid, brassinosteroids and abscisic acid were historically studied without much attention to spatial or tissue-specific context. Recent developments and technologies have, however, sparked strong interest in spatially explicit understanding of shade avoidance regulation. Other environmental factors such as temperature and nutrient availability interact with the molecular shade avoidance regulation network, often depending on the spatial location of the signals, and the responding organs. Here, we aim to review recent advances in how plants respond to heterogenous light cues and integrate these with other environmental signals.
PMID: 38767295
Int J Biol Macromol , IF:6.953 , 2024 May , V271 (Pt 1) : P132544 doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132544
BnaC06.WIP2-BnaA09.STM transcriptional regulatory module promotes leaf lobe formation in Brassica napus.
State Key Laboratory for Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, National Yangling Agricultural Biotechnology & Breeding Center, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.; State Key Laboratory for Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Apple, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.; Hybrid Rapeseed Research Center of Shaanxi Province, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.; State Key Laboratory for Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, National Yangling Agricultural Biotechnology & Breeding Center, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis, College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China. Electronic address: cmx786@nwafu.edu.cn.
The lobed leaves of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) offer significant advantages in dense planting, leading to increased yield. Although AtWIP2, a C2H2 zinc finger transcription factor, acts as a regulator of leaf development in Arabidopsis thaliana, the function and regulatory mechanisms of BnaWIP2 in B. napus remain unclear. Here, constitutive expression of the BnaC06.WIP2 paralog, predominantly expressed in leaf serrations, produced lobed leaves in both A. thaliana and B. napus. We demonstrated that BnaC06.WIP2 directly repressed the expression of BnaA01.TCP4, BnaA03.TCP4, and BnaC03.TCP4 and indirectly inhibited the expression of BnaA05.BOP1 and BnaC02.AS2 to promote leaf lobe formation. On the other hand, we discovered that BnaC06.WIP2 modulated the levels of endogenous gibberellin, cytokinin, and auxin, and controlled the auxin distribution in B. napus leaves, thus accelerating leaf lobe formation. Meanwhile, we revealed that BnaA09.STM physically interacted with BnaC06.WIP2, and ectopic expression of BnaA09.STM generated smaller and lobed leaves in B. napus. Furthermore, we found that BnaC06.WIP2 and BnaA09.STM synergistically promoted leaf lobe formation through forming transcriptional regulatory module. Collectively, our findings not only facilitate in-depth understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying lobed leaf formation, but also are helpful for guiding high-density breeding practices through improving leaf morphology in B. napus.
PMID: 38782318
Int J Biol Macromol , IF:6.953 , 2024 May , V267 (Pt 1) : P131323 doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131323
Cotton sphingosine kinase GhLCBK1 participates in fiber cell elongation by affecting sphingosine-1-phophate and auxin synthesis.
College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Engineering Research Center of South Upland Agriculture, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.; College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Engineering Research Center of South Upland Agriculture, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China. Electronic address: luo0424@126.com.
Sphingolipids serve as essential components of biomembrane and possess significant bioactive properties. Sphingosine-1-phophate (S1P) plays a key role in plant resistance to stress, but its specific impact on plant growth and development remains to be fully elucidated. Cotton fiber cells are an ideal material for investigating the growth and maturation of plant cells. In this study, we examined the content and composition of sphingosine (Sph) and S1P throughout the progression of fiber cell development. The content of S1P elevated gradually during fiber elongation but declined during the transition stage. Exogenous application of S1P promoted fiber elongation while using of FTY720 (an antagonist of S1P), and DMS (an inhibitor of LCBK) hindered fiber elongation. Cotton Long Chain Base Kinase 1 (GhLCBK1) was notably expressed during the fiber elongation stage, containing all conserved domains of LCBK protein and localized in the endoplasmic reticulum. Overexpression GhLCBK1 increased the S1P content and promoted fiber elongation while retarded secondary cell wall (SCW) deposition. Conversely, downregulation of GhLCBK1 reduced the S1P levels, and suppressed fiber elongation, and accelerated SCW deposition. Transcriptome analysis revealed that upregulating GhLCBK1 or applying S1P induced the expression of GhEXPANSIN and auxin related genes. Furthermore, the levels of IAA were elevated and reduced in the fibers when up-regulating or down-regulating GhLCBK1, respectively. Our investigation demonstrated that GhLCBK1 and its product S1P facilitated the elongation of fiber cells by affecting auxin biosynthesis. This study contributes novel insights into the intricate regulatory pathways involved in fiber cell elongation, identifying GhLCBK1 as a potential target gene and laying the groundwork for enhancing fiber quality via genetic manipulation.
PMID: 38574912
Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol , IF:6.914 , 2024 May doi: 10.1165/rcmb.2024-0159OC
Indole-3-Acetic Acid Protects Against Lipopolysaccharide-induced Endothelial Cell Dysfunction and Lung Injury through the Activation of USP40.
The Ohio State University, 2647, Physiology and Cell Biology, Columbus, Ohio, United States.; Ohio State University College of Medicine, 12305, Physiology and Cell Biology, Columbus, Ohio, United States.; Ohio State University College of Medicine, 12305, Physiology and Cell Biology, Columbus, Ohio, United States; Jing.zhao@osumc.edu.
Lung microvascular endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction is the pathological hallmark of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is a key regulator in control of endothelial barrier disruption and inflammation. Our recent study has demonstrated that ubiquitin-specific peptidase 40 (USP40) preserves endothelial integrity by targeting HSP90ï<81>¢ for its deubiquitination and inactivation. Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a plant hormone of the auxin class, can also be catabolized from dietary tryptophan by the intestinal microbiota. Accumulating evidence suggests that IAA reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, and promotes intestinal barrier function. However, little is known about the role of IAA in endothelial cells and acute lung injury. In this study, we investigated the role of IAA in lung endothelial cell function in the context of acute lung injury. IAA exhibited EC barrier protection against LPS-induced reduction in transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and inflammatory responses. The underlying mechanism of IAA on EC protective effects were investigated by examining the influence of IAA on levels of HSP90 ubiquitination and USP40 activity. We identified that IAA, acting as a potential activator of USP40, reduces HSP90 ubiquitination, thereby protecting against LPS-induced inflammation in human lung microvascular endothelial cell (HLMVECs) as well as alleviating experimental lung injury. Furthermore, the EC protective effects of IAA against LPS-induced EC dysfunction and lung injury were abolished in USP40 deficient HLMVECs and lungs of USP40 EC specific knockout (USP40(cdh5-ECKO)) mice. Taken together, this study reveals that IAA protects against LPS-induced EC dysfunction and lung injury through the activation of USP40.
PMID: 38761166
Plant J , IF:6.417 , 2024 May doi: 10.1111/tpj.16851
The additive function of YIGE2 and YIGE1 in regulating maize ear length.
National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China.; Yazhouwan National Laboratory, Sanya, 572024, China.; Department of Molecular Physiology, Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam-Golm, 14476, Germany.; Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 11724, USA.
Ear length (EL) is a key trait that greatly contributes to yield in maize. Although dozens of EL quantitative trait loci have been mapped, very few causal genes have been cloned, and the molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. Our previous study showed that YIGE1 is involved in sugar and auxin pathways to regulate ear inflorescence meristem (IM) development and thus affects EL in maize. Here, we reveal that YIGE2, the paralog of YIGE1, regulates maize ear development and EL through auxin pathway. Knockout of YIGE2 causes a significant decrease of auxin level, IM length, floret number, EL, and grain yield. yige1 yige2 double mutants had even shorter IM and ears implying that these two genes redundantly regulate IM development and EL. The genes controlling auxin levels are differential expressed in yige1 yige2 double mutants, leading to lower auxin level. These results elucidated the critical role of YIGE2 and the redundancy between YIGE2 and YIGE1 in maize ear development, providing a new genetic resource for maize yield improvement.
PMID: 38804053
Plant J , IF:6.417 , 2024 May doi: 10.1111/tpj.16818
SlPP2C2 interacts with FZY/SAUR and regulates tomato development via signaling crosstalk of ABA and auxin.
College of Horticulture, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China.; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Potato Biology, The AGISCAAS-YNNU Joint Academy of Potato Sciences, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, 650000, P. R. China.
Abscisic acid (ABA) signaling interacts frequently with auxin signaling when it regulates plant development, affecting multiple physiological processes; however, to the best of our knowledge, their interaction during tomato development has not yet been reported. Here, we found that type 2C protein phosphatase (SlPP2C2) interacts with both flavin monooxygenase FZY, an indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) biosynthetic enzyme, and small auxin upregulated RNA (SAUR) of an IAA signaling protein and regulates their activity, thereby affecting the expression of IAA-responsive genes. The expression level of SlPP2C2 was increased by exogenous ABA, IAA, NaCl, or dehydration treatment of fruits, leaves, and seeds, and it decreased in imbibed seeds. Manipulating SlPP2C2 with overexpression, RNA interference, and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing resulted in pleiotropic changes, such as morphological changes in leaves, stem trichomes, floral organs and fruits, accompanied by alterations in IAA and ABA levels. Furthermore, the RNA-seq analysis indicated that SlPP2C2 regulates the expression of auxin-/IAA-responsive genes in different tissues of tomato. The results demonstrate that SlPP2C2-mediated ABA signaling regulates the development of both vegetative and reproductive organs via interaction with FZY/SAUR, which integrates the cross-talk of ABA and auxin signals during development and affects the expressions of development-related genes in tomato.
PMID: 38795008
Plant J , IF:6.417 , 2024 May doi: 10.1111/tpj.16809
A Solanum lycopersicum polyamine oxidase contributes to the control of plant growth, xylem differentiation, and drought stress tolerance.
Department of Science, University Roma Tre, 00146, Rome, Italy.; Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Universita di Trieste, Trieste, Italy.; Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), BIOAG-BIOTEC C.R. Casaccia, Rome, Italy.; Department of Biochemical Sciences 'A. Rossi Fanelli', Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.; Department of Biosciences, University of Milano, Milan, Italy.; National Institute of Nuclear Physics, Roma Tre Section, 00146, Rome, Italy.; Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), Rome, Italy.; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy.
Polyamines are involved in several plant physiological processes. In Arabidopsis thaliana, five FAD-dependent polyamine oxidases (AtPAO1 to AtPAO5) contribute to polyamine homeostasis. AtPAO5 catalyzes the back-conversion of thermospermine (T-Spm) to spermidine and plays a role in plant development, xylem differentiation, and abiotic stress tolerance. In the present study, to verify whether T-Spm metabolism can be exploited as a new route to improve stress tolerance in crops and to investigate the underlying mechanisms, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) AtPAO5 homologs were identified (SlPAO2, SlPAO3, and SlPAO4) and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated loss-of-function slpao3 mutants were obtained. Morphological, molecular, and physiological analyses showed that slpao3 mutants display increased T-Spm levels and exhibit changes in growth parameters, number and size of xylem elements, and expression levels of auxin- and gibberellin-related genes compared to wild-type plants. The slpao3 mutants are also characterized by improved tolerance to drought stress, which can be attributed to a diminished xylem hydraulic conductivity that limits water loss, as well as to a reduced vulnerability to embolism. Altogether, this study evidences conservation, though with some significant variations, of the T-Spm-mediated regulatory mechanisms controlling plant growth and differentiation across different plant species and highlights the T-Spm role in improving stress tolerance while not constraining growth.
PMID: 38761363
Plant J , IF:6.417 , 2024 May doi: 10.1111/tpj.16787
MtPIN4 plays critical roles in amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism of seed in Medicago truncatula.
The Key Laboratory of Plant Development and Environmental Adaptation Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, P.R. China.
The regulation of seed development is critical for determining crop yield. Auxins are vital phytohormones that play roles in various aspects of plant growth and development. However, its role in amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism in seeds is not fully understood. In this study, we identified a mutant with small seeds through forward genetic screening in Medicago truncatula. The mutated gene encodes MtPIN4, an ortholog of PIN1. Using molecular approaches and integrative omics analyses, we discovered that auxin and amino acid content significantly decreased in mtpin4 seeds, highlighting the role of MtPIN4-mediated auxin distribution in amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism. Furthermore, genetic analysis revealed that the three orthologs of PIN1 have specific and overlapping functions in various developmental processes in M. truncatula. Our findings emphasize the significance of MtPIN4 in seed development and offer insights into the molecular mechanisms governing the regulation of seed size in crops. This knowledge could be applied to enhance crop quality by targeted manipulation of seed protein regulatory pathways.
PMID: 38701004
Plant J , IF:6.417 , 2024 May , V118 (3) : P607-625 doi: 10.1111/tpj.16626
The peptide GOLVEN10 alters root development and noduletaxis in Medicago truncatula.
College of Agriculture, Tennessee State University, Nashville, Tennessee, 37209, USA.; Noble Research Institute, LLC, Ardmore, Oklahoma, 73401, USA.; Institute of Agricultural Biosciences, Oklahoma State University, Ardmore, Oklahoma, 73401, USA.; Sainsbury Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1LR, UK.; Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, 200032, China.; University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
The conservation of GOLVEN (GLV)/ROOT MERISTEM GROWTH FACTOR (RGF) peptide encoding genes across plant genomes capable of forming roots or root-like structures underscores their potential significance in the terrestrial adaptation of plants. This study investigates the function and role of GOLVEN peptide-coding genes in Medicago truncatula. Five out of fifteen GLV/RGF genes were notably upregulated during nodule organogenesis and were differentially responsive to nitrogen deficiency and auxin treatment. Specifically, the expression of MtGLV9 and MtGLV10 at nodule initiation sites was contingent upon the NODULE INCEPTION transcription factor. Overexpression of these five nodule-induced GLV genes in hairy roots of M. truncatula and application of their synthetic peptide analogues led to a decrease in nodule count by 25-50%. Uniquely, the GOLVEN10 peptide altered the positioning of the first formed lateral root and nodule on the primary root axis, an observation we term 'noduletaxis'; this decreased the length of the lateral organ formation zone on roots. Histological section of roots treated with synthetic GOLVEN10 peptide revealed an increased cell number within the root cortical cell layers without a corresponding increase in cell length, leading to an elongation of the root likely introducing a spatiotemporal delay in organ formation. At the transcription level, the GOLVEN10 peptide suppressed expression of microtubule-related genes and exerted its effects by changing expression of a large subset of Auxin responsive genes. These findings advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which GOLVEN peptides modulate root morphology, nodule ontogeny, and interactions with key transcriptional pathways.
PMID: 38361340
Antioxidants (Basel) , IF:6.312 , 2024 Apr , V13 (5) doi: 10.3390/antiox13050554
Hydrogen Peroxide Signaling in the Maintenance of Plant Root Apical Meristem Activity.
National Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China.
Hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) is a prevalent reactive oxygen species (ROS) found in cells and takes a central role in plant development and stress adaptation. The root apical meristem (RAM) has evolved strong plasticity to adapt to complex and changing environmental conditions. Recent advances have made great progress in explaining the mechanism of key factors, such as auxin, WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX 5 (WOX5), PLETHORA (PLT), SHORTROOT (SHR), and SCARECROW (SCR), in the regulation of RAM activity maintenance. H(2)O(2) functions as an emerging signaling molecule to control the quiescent center (QC) specification and stem cell niche (SCN) activity. Auxin is a key signal for the regulation of RAM maintenance, which largely depends on the formation of auxin regional gradients. H(2)O(2) regulates the auxin gradients by the modulation of intercellular transport. H(2)O(2) also modulates the expression of WOX5, PLTs, SHR, and SCR to maintain RAM activity. The present review is dedicated to summarizing the key factors in the regulation of RAM activity and discussing the signaling transduction of H(2)O(2) in the maintenance of RAM activity. H(2)O(2) is a significant signal for plant development and environmental adaptation.
PMID: 38790659
Int J Mol Sci , IF:5.923 , 2024 May , V25 (10) doi: 10.3390/ijms25105206
The YABBY Transcription Factor, SlYABBY2a, Positively Regulates Fruit Septum Development and Ripening in Tomatoes.
Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Tomato, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.; Key Laboratory of Vegetable Biology of Yunnan Province, College of Landscape and Horticulture, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
The tomato fruit is a complex organ and is composed of various structures from the inside out, such as columella, septum, and placenta. However, our understanding of the development and function of these internal structures remains limited. In this study, we identified a plant-specific YABBY protein, SlYABBY2a, in the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). SlYABBY2a exhibits relatively high expression levels among the nine YABBY genes in tomatoes and shows specific expression in the septum of the fruit. Through the use of a gene-editing technique performed by CRISPR/Cas9, we noticed defects in septum development in the Slyabby2a mutant fruits, leading to the inward concavity of the fruit pericarp and delayed septum ripening. Notably, the expression levels of key genes involved in auxin (SlFZY4, SlFZY5, and SlFZY6) and ethylene (SlACS2) biosynthesis were significantly downregulated in the septum of the Slalkbh10b mutants. Furthermore, the promoter activity of SlYABBY2a was regulated by the ripening regulator, SlTAGL1, in vivo. In summary, these discoveries provide insights into the positive regulation of SlYABBY2a on septum development and ripening and furnish evidence of the coordinated regulation of the auxin and ethylene signaling pathways in the ripening process, which expands our comprehension of septum development in the internal structure of the fruit.
PMID: 38791245
Int J Mol Sci , IF:5.923 , 2024 May , V25 (10) doi: 10.3390/ijms25105100
RNA-Seq Reveals That Multiple Pathways Are Involved in Tuber Expansion in Tiger Nuts (Cyperus esculentus L.).
Key Laboratory of South China Agricultural Plant Molecular Analysis and Genetic Improvement and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China.; State Key Laboratory of Plant Diversity and Specialty Crops, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China.; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.; Key Laboratory of Tropical Plant Resources and Sustainable Use, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun 666303, China.
The tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) is a usable tuber and edible oil plant. The size of the tubers is a key trait that determines the yield and the mechanical harvesting of tiger nut tubers. However, little is known about the anatomical and molecular mechanisms of tuber expansion in tiger nut plants. This study conducted anatomical and comprehensive transcriptomics analyses of tiger nut tubers at the following days after sowing: 40 d (S1); 50 d (S2); 60 d (S3); 70 d (S4); 90 d (S5); and 110 d (S6). The results showed that, at the initiation stage of a tiger nut tuber (S1), the primary thickening meristem (PTM) surrounded the periphery of the stele and was initially responsible for the proliferation of parenchyma cells of the cortex (before S1) and then the stele (S2-S3). The increase in cell size of the parenchyma cells occurred mainly from S1 to S3 in the cortex and from S3 to S4 in the stele. A total of 12,472 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were expressed to a greater extent in the S1-S3 phase than in S4-S6 phase. DEGs related to tuber expansion were involved in cell wall modification, vesicle transport, cell membrane components, cell division, the regulation of plant hormone levels, signal transduction, and metabolism. DEGs involved in the biosynthesis and the signaling of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and jasmonic acid (JA) were expressed highly in S1-S3. The endogenous changes in IAA and JAs during tuber development showed that the highest concentrations were found at S1 and S1-S3, respectively. In addition, several DEGs were related to brassinosteroid (BR) signaling and the G-protein, MAPK, and ubiquitin-proteasome pathways, suggesting that these signaling pathways have roles in the tuber expansion of tiger nut. Finally, we come to the conclusion that the cortex development preceding stele development in tiger nut tubers. The auxin signaling pathway promotes the division of cortical cells, while the jasmonic acid pathway, brassinosteroid signaling, G-protein pathway, MAPK pathway, and ubiquitin protein pathway regulate cell division and the expansion of the tuber cortex and stele. This finding will facilitate searches for genes that influence tuber expansion and the regulatory networks in developing tubers.
PMID: 38791140
Int J Mol Sci , IF:5.923 , 2024 May , V25 (10) doi: 10.3390/ijms25105078
Advances in the Modulation of Potato Tuber Dormancy and Sprouting.
College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.
The post-harvest phase of potato tuber dormancy and sprouting are essential in determining the economic value. The intricate transition from dormancy to active growth is influenced by multiple factors, including environmental factors, carbohydrate metabolism, and hormonal regulation. Well-established environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light play pivotal roles in these processes. However, recent research has expanded our understanding to encompass other novel influences such as magnetic fields, cold plasma treatment, and UV-C irradiation. Hormones like abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellic acid (GA), cytokinins (CK), auxin, and ethylene (ETH) act as crucial messengers, while brassinosteroids (BRs) have emerged as key modulators of potato tuber sprouting. In addition, jasmonates (JAs), strigolactones (SLs), and salicylic acid (SA) also regulate potato dormancy and sprouting. This review article delves into the intricate study of potato dormancy and sprouting, emphasizing the impact of environmental conditions, carbohydrate metabolism, and hormonal regulation. It explores how various environmental factors affect dormancy and sprouting processes. Additionally, it highlights the role of carbohydrates in potato tuber sprouting and the intricate hormonal interplay, particularly the role of BRs. This review underscores the complexity of these interactions and their importance in optimizing potato dormancy and sprouting for agricultural practices.
PMID: 38791120
Int J Mol Sci , IF:5.923 , 2024 May , V25 (9) doi: 10.3390/ijms25095043
Molecular Mechanisms of CBL-CIPK Signaling Pathway in Plant Abiotic Stress Tolerance and Hormone Crosstalk.
Soil Science and Plant Nutrition Department, Agriculture Faculty, Harran University, Sanliurfa 63200, Turkey.; Section of Botany, Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15784 Athens, Greece.
Abiotic stressors, including drought, salt, cold, and heat, profoundly impact plant growth and development, forcing elaborate cellular responses for adaptation and resilience. Among the crucial orchestrators of these responses is the CBL-CIPK pathway, comprising calcineurin B-like proteins (CBLs) and CBL-interacting protein kinases (CIPKs). While CIPKs act as serine/threonine protein kinases, transmitting calcium signals, CBLs function as calcium sensors, influencing the plant's response to abiotic stress. This review explores the intricate interactions between the CBL-CIPK pathway and plant hormones such as ABA, auxin, ethylene, and jasmonic acid (JA). It highlights their role in fine-tuning stress responses for optimal survival and acclimatization. Building on previous studies that demonstrated the enhanced stress tolerance achieved by upregulating CBL and CIPK genes, we explore the regulatory mechanisms involving post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions. Despite significant contributions from prior research, gaps persist in understanding the nuanced interplay between the CBL-CIPK system and plant hormone signaling under diverse abiotic stress conditions. In contrast to broader perspectives, our review focuses on the interaction of the pathway with crucial plant hormones and its implications for genetic engineering interventions to enhance crop stress resilience. This specialized perspective aims to contribute novel insights to advance our understanding of the potential of the CBL-CIPK pathway to mitigate crops' abiotic stress.
PMID: 38732261
Front Plant Sci , IF:5.753 , 2024 , V15 : P1380417 doi: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1380417
Auxin efflux carrier PsPIN4 identified through genome-wide analysis as vital factor of petal abscission.
State Key Laboratory of Efficient Production of Forest Resources, Key Laboratory of Tree Breeding and Cultivation of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Research Institute of Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, China.; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Forest Genetic Improvement, Yellow River delta forest ecosystem positioning research station, Shandong Provincial Academy of Forestry, Jinan, China.; University Key Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology in Shandong Province, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China.
PIN-FORMED (PIN) proteins, which function as efflux transporters, play many crucial roles in the polar transportation of auxin within plants. In this study, the exogenous applications of auxin IAA and TIBA were found to significantly prolong and shorten the florescence of tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa Andr.) flowers. This finding suggests that auxin has some regulatory influence in petal senescence and abscission. Further analysis revealed a total of 8 PsPINs distributed across three chromosomes, which could be categorized into two classes based on phylogenetic and structural analysis. PsPIN1, PsPIN2a-b, and PsPIN4 were separated into the "long" PIN category, while PsPIN5, PsPIN6a-b, and PsPIN8 belonged to the "short" one. Additionally, the cis-regulatory elements of PsPIN promoters were associated with plant development, phytohormones, and environmental stress. These genes displayed tissue-specific expression, and phosphorylation sites were abundant throughout the protein family. Notably, PsPIN4 displayed distinct and elevated expression levels in roots, leaves, and flower organs. Expression patterns among the abscission zone (AZ) and adjacent areas during various flowering stages and IAA treatment indicate that PsPIN4 likely influences the initiation of peony petal abscission. The PsPIN4 protein was observed to be co-localized on both the plasma membrane and the cell nucleus. The ectopic expression of PsPIN4 reversed the premature flower organs abscission in the Atpin4 and significantly protracted florescence when introduced to Col Arabidopsis. Our findings established a strong basis for further investigation of PIN gene biological functions, particularly concerning intrinsic relationship between PIN-mediated auxin polar.
PMID: 38799094
Microbiol Res , IF:5.415 , 2024 Jul , V284 : P127726 doi: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127726
Plant communication with rhizosphere microbes can be revealed by understanding microbial functional gene composition.
CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Yunnan 666303, China. Electronic address: sandhya@xtbg.ac.cn.; CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Yunnan 666303, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.; CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Yunnan 666303, China. Electronic address: yangxd@xtbg.ac.cn.
Understanding rhizosphere microbial ecology is necessary to reveal the interplay between plants and associated microbial communities. The significance of rhizosphere-microbial interactions in plant growth promotion, mediated by several key processes such as auxin synthesis, enhanced nutrient uptake, stress alleviation, disease resistance, etc., is unquestionable and well reported in numerous literature. Moreover, rhizosphere research has witnessed tremendous progress due to the integration of the metagenomics approach and further shift in our viewpoint from taxonomic to functional diversity over the past decades. The microbial functional genes corresponding to the beneficial functions provide a solid foundation for the successful establishment of positive plant-microbe interactions. The microbial functional gene composition in the rhizosphere can be regulated by several factors, e.g., the nutritional requirements of plants, soil chemistry, soil nutrient status, pathogen attack, abiotic stresses, etc. Knowing the pattern of functional gene composition in the rhizosphere can shed light on the dynamics of rhizosphere microbial ecology and the strength of cooperation between plants and associated microbes. This knowledge is crucial to realizing how microbial functions respond to unprecedented challenges which are obvious in the Anthropocene. Unraveling how microbes-mediated beneficial functions will change under the influence of several challenges, requires knowledge of the pattern and composition of functional genes corresponding to beneficial functions such as biogeochemical functions (nutrient cycle), plant growth promotion, stress mitigation, etc. Here, we focus on the molecular traits of plant growth-promoting functions delivered by a set of microbial functional genes that can be useful to the emerging field of rhizosphere functional ecology.
PMID: 38643524
Microbiol Res , IF:5.415 , 2024 May , V282 : P127639 doi: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127639
Mechanisms on salt tolerant of Paenibacillus polymyxa SC2 and its growth-promoting effects on maize seedlings under saline conditions.
College of Life Sciences, Shandong Engineering Research Center of Plant-Microbia Restoration for Saline-alkali Land, Shandong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an 271018, China. Electronic address: wangcq@sdau.edu.cn.; College of Life Sciences, Shandong Engineering Research Center of Plant-Microbia Restoration for Saline-alkali Land, Shandong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an 271018, China.; Institute of Wetland Agriculture and Ecology, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China.; Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China. Electronic address: jjqdainty@163.com.; College of Life Sciences, Shandong Engineering Research Center of Plant-Microbia Restoration for Saline-alkali Land, Shandong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an 271018, China; College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, Dezhou 253023, China. Electronic address: zhaodongying4321@163.com.
Soil salinity negatively affects microbial communities, soil fertility, and agricultural productivity and has become a major agricultural problem worldwide. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) with salt tolerance can benefit plant growth under saline conditions and diminish the negative effects of salt stress on plants. In this study, we aimed to understand the salt-tolerance mechanism of Paenibacillus polymyxa at the genetic and metabolic levels and elucidate the mechanism of strain SC2 in promoting maize growth under saline conditions. Under salt stress, we found that strain SC2 promoted maize seedling growth, which was accompanied by a significant upregulation of genes encoding for the biosynthesis of peptidoglycan, polysaccharide, and fatty acid, the metabolism of purine and pyrimidine, and the transport of osmoprotectants such as trehalose, glycine betaine, and K(+) in strain SC2. To further enhance the salt resistance of strain SC2, three mutants (SC2-11, SC2-13, and SC2-14) with higher capacities for salt resistance and exopolysaccharide synthesis were obtained via atmospheric and room-temperature plasma mutagenesis. In saline-alkaline soil, the mutants showed better promoting effect on maize seedlings than wild-type SC2. The fresh weight of maize seedlings was increased by 68.10% after treatment with SC2-11 compared with that of the control group. The transcriptome analysis of maize roots demonstrated that SC2 and SC2-11 could induce the upregulation of genes related to the plant hormone signal transduction, starch and sucrose metabolism, reactive oxygen species scavenging, and auxin and ethylene signaling under saline-alkaline stress. In addition, various transcription factors, such as zinc finger proteins, ethylene-responsive-element-binding protein, WRKY, myeloblastosis proteins, basic helix-loop-helix proteins, and NAC proteins, were up-regulated in response to abiotic stress. Moreover, the microbial community composition of maize rhizosphere soil after inoculating with strain SC2 was varied from the one after inoculating with mutant SC2-11. Our results provide new insights into the various genes involved in the salt resistance of strain SC2 and a theoretical basis for utilizing P. polymyxa in saline-alkaline environments.
PMID: 38354626
Food Chem X , IF:5.182 , 2024 Jun , V22 : P101306 doi: 10.1016/j.fochx.2024.101306
Exogenous silicon applied at appropriate concentrations is effective at improving tomato nutritional and flavor qualities.
College of Horticulture, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China.; State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China.
Silicon can mitigate biotic and abiotic stresses in various plants; however, its effects on tomato quality under normal growth conditions are remain unclear. We used a randomized design with four Si treatments, CON (0 mmol/L), T1 (0.6 mmol/L), T2 (1.2 mmol/L), and T3 (1.8 mmol/L) on tomato fruit components Chlorogenic acid and rutin, among polyphenolic components, were increased by 56.99% and 20.31%, respectively, with T2 treatment compared to CON concentrations. T2 increased the sugar-acid ratio by 19.21%, compared to that with the CON treatment, and increased fruit Ca and Mg contents, compared to those with other treatments, improving the characteristic aroma. Furthermore, silicon application reduced the abscisic acid content by 112%, promoting ripening. Endogenous gibberellin, auxin, and salicylic acid, which retard fruit ripening and softening, were increased by 34.96%, 14.56%, and 35.21%, respectively. These findings have far-reaching implications for exogenous Si applications to enrich tomato nutritional and flavor qualities.
PMID: 38550882
Plant Cell Physiol , IF:4.927 , 2024 May doi: 10.1093/pcp/pcae055
The PLETHORA Homolog In Marchantia polymorpha is Essential To Meristem Maintenance, Developmental Progression, And Redox Homeostasis.
College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.; Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.
To adapt to a terrestrial habitat, the ancestors of land plants must make several morphological and physiological modifications, such as a meristem allowing for three-dimensional growth, rhizoids for water and nutrient uptake, air pore complexes or stomata that permit air exchange, and a defense system to cope with oxidative stress that occurs frequently in a terrestrial habitat. To understand how meristem is determined during land plant evolution, we characterized the function of the closest PLETHORA homolog in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha, which we named MpPLT. Through transgenic approach, we showed that MpPLT is expressed not only in the stem cells at the apical notch but also in the proliferation zone of the meristem, as well as cells that form the air-pore complex and rhizoids. Using the CRISPR method we then created mutants for MpPLT and found that the mutants are not only defective in meristem maintenance but also compromised in air-pore complex and rhizoid development. Strikingly, at later developmental stages, numerous gemma-like structures were formed in Mpplt mutants, suggesting developmental arrest. Further experiments indicate that MpPLT promotes plant growth by regulating MpWOX, which shared a similar expression pattern as MpPLT, and genes involved in auxin and cytokinin signaling pathways. Through transcriptome analyses, we found that MpPLT also has a role in redox homeostasis and that this role is essential to plant growth. Together, these results suggest that MpPLT has a crucial role in liverwort growth and development and hence may have played a crucial role in early land plant evolution.
PMID: 38757817
Plant Cell Physiol , IF:4.927 , 2024 May doi: 10.1093/pcp/pcae047
Crosstalk between brassinosteroids and other phytohormones during plant development and stress adaption.
Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Adaptation and Molecular Design, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a group of polyhydroxylated phytosterols that play essential roles in regulating plant growth and development as well as stress adaptation. It is worth noting that BRs do not function alone, but rather they crosstalk with other endogenous signaling molecules, including the phytohormones auxin, cytokinins (CKs), gibberellins (GAs), abscisic acid (ABA), ethylene (ET), jasmonates (JAs), salicylic acid (SA), and strigolactones (SLs), forming elaborate signaling networks to modulate plant growth and development. BRs interact with other phytohormones mainly by regulating each others' homeostasis, transport, or signaling pathway at the transcriptional and posttranslational levels. In this review, we focus our attention on current research progress in BR signal transduction and the crosstalk between BRs and other phytohormones.
PMID: 38727547
Plant Cell Physiol , IF:4.927 , 2024 May , V65 (4) : P671-679 doi: 10.1093/pcp/pcae003
Transcriptome Analysis of Rice Root Tips Reveals Auxin, Gibberellin and Ethylene Signaling Underlying Nutritropism.
Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657 Japan.; Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa, Nagoya, 464-8601 Japan.; Advanced Genomics Center, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka, 411-8540 Japan.; Department of Genomics and Evolutionary Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka, 411-8540 Japan.
Nutritropism is a positive tropism toward nutrients in plant roots. An NH4+ gradient is a nutritropic stimulus in rice (Oryza sativa L.). When rice roots are exposed to an NH4+ gradient generated around nutrient sources, root tips bend toward and coil around the sources. The molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we analyzed the transcriptomes of the inside and outside of bending root tips exhibiting nutritropism to reveal nutritropic signal transduction. Tissues facing the nutrient sources (inside) and away (outside) were separately collected by laser microdissection. Principal component analysis revealed distinct transcriptome patterns between the two tissues. Annotations of 153 differentially expressed genes implied that auxin, gibberellin and ethylene signaling were activated differentially between the sides of the root tips under nutritropism. Exogenous application of transport and/or biosynthesis inhibitors of these phytohormones largely inhibited the nutritropism. Thus, signaling and de novo biosynthesis of the three phytohormones are necessary for nutritropism. Expression patterns of IAA genes implied that auxins accumulated more in the inside tissues, meaning that ammonium stimulus is transduced to auxin signaling in nutritropism similar to gravity stimulus in gravitropism. SAUR and expansin genes, which are known to control cell wall modification and to promote cell elongation in shoot gravitropism, were highly expressed in the inside tissues rather than the outside tissues, and our transcriptome data are unexplainable for differential elongation in root nutritropism.
PMID: 38226464
Rice (N Y) , IF:4.783 , 2024 May , V17 (1) : P32 doi: 10.1186/s12284-024-00710-2
Temperature Effect on Rhizome Development in Perennial rice.
State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.; State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China. fanyourred@163.com.; State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China. yangjy598@163.com.
Traditional agriculture is becoming increasingly not adapted to global climate change. Compared with annual rice, perennial rice has strong environmental adaptation and needs fewer natural resources and labor inputs. Rhizome, a kind of underground stem for rice to achieve perenniallity, can grow underground horizontally and then bend upward, developing into aerial stems. The temperature has a great influence on plant development. To date, the effect of temperature on rhizome development is still unknown. Fine temperature treatment of Oryza longistaminata (OL) proved that compared with higher temperatures (28-30 ℃), lower temperature (17-19 ℃) could promote the sprouting of axillary buds and enhance negative gravitropism of branches, resulting in shorter rhizomes. The upward growth of branches was earlier at low temperature than that at high temperature, leading to a high frequency of shorter rhizomes and smaller branch angles. Comparative transcriptome showed that plant hormones played an essential role in the response of OL to temperature. The expressions of ARF17, ARF25 and FucT were up-regulated at low temperature, resulting in prospectively asymmetric auxin distribution, which subsequently induced asymmetric expression of IAA20 and WOX11 between the upper and lower side of the rhizome, further leading to upward growth of the rhizome. Cytokinin and auxin are phytohormones that can promote and inhibit bud outgrowth, respectively. The auxin biosynthesis gene YUCCA1 and cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase gene CKX4 and CKX9 were up-regulated, while cytokinin biosynthesis gene IPT4 was down-regulated at high temperature. Moreover, the D3 and D14 in strigolactones pathways, negatively regulating bud outgrowth, were up-regulated at high temperature. These results indicated that cytokinin, auxins, and strigolactones jointly control bud outgrowth at different temperatures. Our research revealed that the outgrowth of axillary bud and the upward growth of OL rhizome were earlier at lower temperature, providing clues for understanding the rhizome growth habit under different temperatures, which would be helpful for cultivating perennial rice.
PMID: 38717687
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2024 May : P112133 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112133
WUSCHEL RELATED HOMEOBOX5 and 7 maintain callus development by promoting cell division in Arabidopsis.
State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China.; National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 300 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. Electronic address: zhaining@cemps.ac.cn.; State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China. Electronic address: limin.pi@whu.edu.cn.
In tissue culture, a high concentration of auxin in the callus induction medium (CIM) stimulates cell division and subsequent callus formation, which acquires root primordium-like characteristics necessary for cell pluripotency. In Arabidopsis, WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX5 (WOX5) and its closest homolog WOX7, which are abundant in the middle cell layer of mature callus, play a crucial role in maintaining pluripotency by promoting auxin accumulation and enhancing cytokinin sensitivity. However, the mechanism by which WOX5/7 regulate callus formation remains unclear. In this study, we found that mutations in WOX5/7 resulted in a significant down-regulation of genes involved in the G2M and S phases during callus induction. Loss-of-function mutants of WOX5/7 exhibited reduced callus formation, which was correlated with decreased expression of CYCB1;1 compared to the wild-type. Furthermore, we provided evidence that WOX5 physically interacts with PHYTOCHROME A SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION1 (PAT1), which spatio-temporally co-expresses with WOX5 in early-induced callus, and up-regulates a subset of cycle-regulating genes targeted by PAT1. Collectively, our findings suggest a critical role for the WOX5-PAT1 protein complex in regulating cell cycle progression, thereby promoting the continuous growth capacity of pluripotent callus.
PMID: 38795752
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2024 Jul , V344 : P112103 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112103
PbARF19-mediated auxin signaling regulates lignification in pear fruit stone cells.
Sanya Institute, College of Horticulture, State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.; Sanya Institute, College of Horticulture, State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China. Electronic address: taost@njau.edu.cn.
The stone cells in pear fruits cause rough flesh and low juice, seriously affecting the taste. Lignin has been demonstrated as the main component of stone cells. Auxin, one of the most important plant hormone, regulates most physiological processes in plants including lignification. However, the concentration effect and regulators of auxin on pear fruits stone cell formation remains unclear. Here, endogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and stone cells were found to be co-localized in lignified cells by immunofluorescence localization analysis. The exogenous treatment of different concentrations of IAA demonstrated that the application of 200 microM IAA significantly reduced stone cell content, while concentrations greater than 500 microM significantly increased stone cell content. Besides, 31 auxin response factors (ARFs) were identified in pear genome. Putative ARFs were predicted as critical regulators involved in the lignification of pear flesh cells by phylogenetic relationship and expression analysis. Furthermore, the negative regulation of PbARF19 on stone cell formation in pear fruit was demonstrated by overexpression in pear fruitlets and Arabidopsis. These results illustrated that the PbARF19-mediated auxin signal plays a critical role in the lignification of pear stone cell by regulating lignin biosynthetic genes. This study provides theoretical and practical guidance for improving fruit quality in pear production.
PMID: 38657909
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2024 Jun , V343 : P112064 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112064
Abolishing ARF8A activity promotes disease resistance in tomato.
Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel; School of Plant Science and Food Security, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel.; Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel.; Institute of Plant Science and Genetics in Agriculture, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.; School of Plant Science and Food Security, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel.; Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel. Electronic address: mayabar@volcani.agri.gov.il.
Auxin response factors (ARFs) are a family of transcription factors that regulate auxin-dependent developmental processes. Class A ARFs function as activators of auxin-responsive gene expression in the presence of auxin, while acting as transcriptional repressors in its absence. Despite extensive research on the functions of ARF transcription factors in plant growth and development, the extent, and mechanisms of their involvement in plant resistance, remain unknown. We have previously reported that mutations in the tomato AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR8 (ARF8) genes SlARF8A and SlARF8B result in the decoupling of fruit development from pollination and fertilization, leading to partial or full parthenocarpy and increased yield under extreme temperatures. Here, we report that fine-tuning of SlARF8 activity results in increased resistance to fungal and bacterial pathogens. This resistance is mostly preserved under fluctuating temperatures. Thus, fine-tuning SlARF8 activity may be a potent strategy for increasing overall growth and yield.
PMID: 38492890
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2024 Jun , V343 : P112057 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112057
Partially knocking out NtPDK1a/1b/1c/1d simultaneously in Nicotiana tabacum using CRISPR/CAS9 technology results in auxin-related developmental defects.
College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321004, China.; College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321004, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology on Specialty Economic Plants, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321004, China; Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321004, China. Electronic address: jzliu@zjnu.cn.
The eukaryotic AGC protein kinase subfamily (protein kinase A/ protein kinase G/ protein kinase C-family) is involved in regulating numerous biological processes across kingdoms, including growth and development, and apoptosis. PDK1(3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1) is a conserved serine/threonine kinase in eukaryotes, which is both a member of AGC kinase and a major regulator of many other downstream AGC protein kinase family members. Although extensively investigated in model plant Arabidopsis, detailed reports for tobacco PDK1s have been limited. To better understand the functions of PDK1s in tobacco, CRISPR/CAS9 transgenic lines were generated in tetraploid N. tabacum, cv. Samsun (NN) with 5-7 of the 8 copies of 4 homologous PDK1 genes in tobacco genome (NtPDK1a/1b/1c/1d homologs) simultaneously knocked out. Numerous developmental defects were observed in these NtPDK1a/1b/1c/1d CRISPR/CAS9 lines, including cotyledon fusion leaf shrinkage, uneven distribution of leaf veins, convex veins, root growth retardation, and reduced fertility, all of which reminiscence of impaired polar auxin transport. The severity of these defects was correlated with the number of knocked out alleles of NtPDK1a/1b/1c/1d. Consistent with the observation in Arabidopsis, it was found that the polar auxin transport, and not auxin biosynthesis, was significantly compromised in these knockout lines compared with the wild type tobacco plants. The fact that no homozygous plant with all 8 NtPDK1a/1b/1c/1d alleles being knocked out suggested that knocking out 8 alleles of NtPDK1a/1b/1c/1d could be lethal. In conclusion, our results indicated that NtPDK1s are versatile AGC kinases that participate in regulation of tobacco growth and development via modulating polar auxin transport. Our results also indicated that CRISPR/CAS9 technology is a powerful tool in resolving gene redundancy in polyploidy plants.
PMID: 38460553
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2024 May , V342 : P112050 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112050
Plant-specific environmental and developmental signals regulate the mismatch repair protein MSH6 in Arabidopsis thaliana.
Centro de Estudios Fotosinteticos y Bioquimicos (CEFOBI), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquimicas y Farmaceuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina.; Centro de Estudios Fotosinteticos y Bioquimicos (CEFOBI), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquimicas y Farmaceuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina. Electronic address: spampinato@cefobi-conicet.gov.ar.
The DNA mismatch repair (MMR) is a postreplicative system that guarantees genomic stability by correcting mispaired and unpaired nucleotides. In eukaryotic nuclei, MMR is initiated by the binding of heterodimeric MutS homologue (MSH) complexes to the DNA error or lesion. Among these proteins, MSH2-MSH6 is the most abundant heterodimer. Even though the MMR mechanism and proteins are highly conserved throughout evolution, physiological differences between species can lead to different regulatory features. Here, we investigated how light, sugar, and/or hormones modulate Arabidopsis thaliana MSH6 expression pattern. We first characterized the promoter region of MSH6. Phylogenetic shadowing revealed three highly conserved regions. These regions were analyzed by the generation of deletion constructs of the MSH6 full-length promoter fused to the beta-glucuronidase (GUS) gene. Combined, our in silico and genetic analyses revealed that a 121-bp promoter fragment was necessary for MSH6 expression and contained potential cis-acting elements involved in light- and hormone-responsive gene expression. Accordingly, light exposure or sugar treatment of four-day old A. thaliana seedlings triggered an upregulation of MSH6 in shoot and root apical meristems. Appropriately, MSH6 was also induced by the stem cell inducer WUSCHEL. Further, the stimulatory effect of light was dependent on the presence of phyA. In addition, treatment of seedlings with auxin or cytokinin also caused an upregulation of MSH6 under darkness. Consistent with auxin signals, MSH6 expression was suppressed in the GATA23 RNAi line compared with the wild type. Our results provide evidence that endogenous factors and environmental signals controlling plant growth and development regulate the MSH6 protein in A. thaliana.
PMID: 38401766
Front Genet , IF:4.599 , 2024 , V15 : P1393487 doi: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1393487
Comparative genomic profiling of transport inhibitor Response1/Auxin signaling F-box (TIR1/AFB) genes in eight Pyrus genomes revealed the intraspecies diversity and stress responsiveness patterns.
Pomology Institute, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Germplasm Improvement and Utilization in Pomology, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.; College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China.; Integrative Omics and Molecular Modeling Laboratory, Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Faisalabad, Pakistan.
In the genomics of plants and the phytoecosystem, Pyrus (pear) is among the most nutritious fruits and contains fiber that has great health benefits to humans. It is mostly cultivated in temperate regions and is one of the most cultivated pome fruits globally. Pears are highly subjected to biotic and abiotic stresses that affect their yield. TIR1/AFB proteins act as auxin co-receptors during the signaling of nuclear auxins and play a primary role in development-related regulatory processes and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, this gene family and its members have not been explored in Pyrus genomes, and understanding these genes will help obtain useful insights into stress tolerance and ultimately help maintain a high yield of pears. This study reports a pangenome-wide investigation of TIR1/AFB genes from eight Pyrus genomes: Cuiguan (Pyrus pyrifolia), Shanxi Duli (P. betulifolia), Zhongai 1 [(P. ussuriensis x communis) x spp.], Nijisseiki (P. pyrifolia), Yunhong No.1 (P. pyrifolia), d'Anjou (P. communis), Bartlett v2.0 (P. communis), and Dangshansuli v.1.1 (P. bretschneideri). These genes were randomly distributed on 17 chromosomes in each genome. Based on phylogenetics, the identified TIR1/AFB genes were divided into six groups. Their gene structure and motif pattern showed the intraspecific structural conservation as well as evolutionary patterns of Pyrus TIR1/AFBs. The expansion of this gene family in Pyrus is mainly caused by segmental duplication; however, a few genes showed tandem duplication. Moreover, positive and negative selection pressure equally directed the gene's duplication process. The GO and PPI analysis showed that Pyrus TIR1/AFB genes are associated with abiotic stress- and development-related signaling pathways. The promoter regions of Pyrus TIR1/AFB genes were enriched in hormone-, light-, development-, and stress-related cis elements. Furthermore, publicly available RNA-seq data analysis showed that DaTIR1/AFBs have varied levels of expression in various tissues and developmental stages, fruit hardening disease conditions, and drought stress conditions. This indicated that DaTIR1/AFB genes might play critical roles in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. The DaTIR1/AFBs have similar protein structures, which show that they are involved in the same function. Hence, this study will broaden our knowledge of the TIR1/AFB gene family in Pyrus, elucidating their contribution to conferring resistance against various environmental stresses, and will also provide valuable insights for future researchers.
PMID: 38798703
Plant Cell Rep , IF:4.57 , 2024 May , V43 (6) : P147 doi: 10.1007/s00299-024-03233-8
Bridging fungal resistance and plant growth through constitutive overexpression of Thchit42 gene in Pelargonium graveolens.
Plant Tissue Culture Lab, Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226015, India.; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India.; Division of Crop Production and Protection, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, India.; Technology Dissemination and Computational Biology Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, India.; Phytochemistry Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, India.; Plant Tissue Culture Lab, Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226015, India. l.rahman@cimap.res.in.; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India. l.rahman@cimap.res.in.
Thchit42 constitutive expression for fungal resistance showed synchronisation with leaf augmentation and transcriptome analysis revealed the Longifolia and Zinc finger RICESLEEPER gene is responsible for plant growth and development. Pelargonium graveolens essential oil possesses significant attributes, known for perfumery and aromatherapy. However, optimal yield and propagation are predominantly hindered by biotic stress. All biotechnological approaches have yet to prove effective in addressing fungal resistance. The current study developed transgenic geranium bridging molecular mechanism of fungal resistance and plant growth by introducing cassette 35S::Thchit42. Furthermore, 120 independently putative transformed explants were regenerated on kanamycin fortified medium. Primarily transgenic lines were demonstrated peak pathogenicity and antifungal activity against formidable Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Fusarium oxysporum. Additionally, phenotypic analysis revealed ~ 2fold increase in leaf size and ~ 2.1fold enhanced oil content. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms for genotypic cause, de novo transcriptional profiles were analyzed to indicate that the auxin-regulated longifolia gene is accountable for augmentation in leaf size, and zinc finger (ZF) RICESLEEPER attributes growth upregulation. Collectively, data provides valuable insights into unravelling the mechanism of Thchit42-mediated crosstalk between morphological and chemical alteration in transgenic plants. This knowledge might create novel opportunities to cultivate fungal-resistant geranium throughout all seasons to fulfil demand.
PMID: 38771491
Biol Direct , IF:4.54 , 2024 May , V19 (1) : P40 doi: 10.1186/s13062-024-00483-0
Plant hormones and phenolic acids response to UV-B stress in Rhododendron chrysanthum pall.
Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resource Science and Green Production, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, China.; Jilin Engineering Vocational College, Siping, China.; Siping Central People's Hospital, Siping, China.; Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resource Science and Green Production, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, China. zhouxiaofu@jlnu.edu.cn.
Our study aims to identify the mechanisms involved in regulating the response of Rhodoendron Chrysanthum Pall. (R. chrysanthum) leaves to UV-B exposure; phosphorylated proteomics and metabolomics for phenolic acids and plant hormones were integrated in this study. The results showed that UV-B stress resulted in the accumulation of salicylic acid and the decrease of auxin, jasmonic acid, abscisic acid, cytokinin and gibberellin in R. chrysanthum. The phosphorylated proteins that changed in plant hormone signal transduction pathway and phenolic acid biosynthesis pathway were screened by comprehensive metabonomics and phosphorylated proteomics. In order to construct the regulatory network of R. chrysanthum leaves under UV-B stress, the relationship between plant hormones and phenolic acid compounds was analyzed. It provides a rationale for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of radiation tolerance in plants.
PMID: 38807240
Physiol Plant , IF:4.5 , 2024 May-Jun , V176 (3) : Pe14357 doi: 10.1111/ppl.14357
Unravelling the biostimulant activity of a protein hydrolysate in lettuce plants under optimal and low N availability: a multi-omics approach.
Faculty of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences, Free University of Bozen/Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy.; Department for Sustainable Food Process, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy.; Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy.; Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy.
The application of protein hydrolysates (PH) biostimulants is considered a promising approach to promote crop growth and resilience against abiotic stresses. Nevertheless, PHs bioactivity depends on both the raw material used for their preparation and the molecular fraction applied. The present research aimed at investigating the molecular mechanisms triggered by applying a PH and its fractions on plants subjected to nitrogen limitations. To this objective, an integrated transcriptomic-metabolomic approach was used to assess lettuce plants grown under different nitrogen levels and treated with either the commercial PH Vegamin(R) or its molecular fractions PH1(>10 kDa), PH2 (1-10 kDa) and PH3 (<1 kDa). Regardless of nitrogen provision, biostimulant application enhanced lettuce biomass, likely through a hormone-like activity. This was confirmed by the modulation of genes involved in auxin and cytokinin synthesis, mirrored by an increase in the metabolic levels of these hormones. Consistently, PH and PH3 upregulated genes involved in cell wall growth and plasticity. Furthermore, the accumulation of specific metabolites suggested the activation of a multifaceted antioxidant machinery. Notwithstanding, the modulation of stress-response transcription factors and genes involved in detoxification processes was observed. The coordinated action of these molecular entities might underpin the increased resilience of lettuce plants against nitrogen-limiting conditions. In conclusion, integrating omics techniques allowed the elucidation of mechanistic aspects underlying PH bioactivity in crops. Most importantly, the comparison of PH with its fraction PH3 showed that, except for a few peculiarities, the effects induced were equivalent, suggesting that the highest bioactivity was ascribable to the lightest molecular fraction.
PMID: 38775128
Physiol Plant , IF:4.5 , 2024 May-Jun , V176 (3) : Pe14338 doi: 10.1111/ppl.14338
Bacillus subtilis promotes plant phosphorus (P) acquisition through P solubilization and stimulation of root and root hair growth.
Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark.; Plant Health Innovation, Novonesis A/S, Taastrup, Denmark.; Bacterial Interactions and Evolution Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.; R&D Microbial Screening, R&D Microbe & Culture Research, Novonesis A/S, Horsholm, Denmark.; Biochemical Assays, Novonesis A/S, Horsholm, Denmark.; Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.
Bacteria can be applied as biofertilizers to improve crop growth in phosphorus (P)-limited conditions. However, their mode of action in a soil environment is still elusive. We used the strain ALC_02 as a case study to elucidate how Bacillus subtilis affects dwarf tomato cultivated in soil-filled rhizoboxes over time. ALC_02 improved plant P acquisition by increasing the size and P content of P-limited plants. We assessed three possible mechanisms, namely root growth stimulation, root hair elongation, and solubilization of soil P. ALC_02 produced auxin, and inoculation with ALC_02 promoted root growth. ALC_02 promoted root hair elongation as the earliest observed response and colonized root hairs specifically. Root and root hair growth stimulation was associated with a subsequent increase in plant P content, indicating that a better soil exploration by the root system improved plant P acquisition. Furthermore, ALC_02 affected the plant-available P content in sterilized soil differently over time and released P from native P pools in the soil. Collectively, ALC_02 exhibited all three mechanisms in a soil environment. To our knowledge, bacterial P biofertilizers have not been reported to colonize and elongate root hairs in the soil so far, and we propose that these traits contribute to the overall effect of ALC_02. The knowledge gained in this research can be applied in the future quest for bacterial P biofertilizers, where we recommend assessing all three parameters, not only root growth and P solubilization, but also root hair elongation. This will ultimately support the development of sustainable agricultural practices.
PMID: 38740528
DNA Res , IF:4.458 , 2024 May doi: 10.1093/dnares/dsae017
High integrity Pueraria montana var. lobata genome and population analysis revealed the genetic diversity of Pueraria genus.
State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China.; Cash Crops Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences (GXAAS), Nanning, Guangxi, 530007, China.
Pueraria montana var. lobata (P. lobata) is a traditional medicinal plant belonging to the Pueraria genus of Fabaceae family. Pueraria montana var. thomsonii (P. thomsonii) and Pueraria montana var. montana (P. montana) are its related species. However, evolutionary history of the Pueraria genus is still largely unknown. Here, a high-integrity, chromosome-level genome of P. lobata and an improved genome of P. thomsonii were reported. It found evidence for an ancient whole-genome triplication and a recent whole-genome duplication shared with Fabaceae in three Pueraria species. Population genomics of 121 Pueraria accessions demonstrated that P. lobata populations had substantially higher genetic diversity, and P. thomsonii was probably derived from P. lobata by domestication as a subspecies. Selection sweep analysis identified candidate genes in P. thomsonii populations associated with the synthesis of auxin and gibberellin, which potentially play a role in the expansion and starch accumulation of tubers in P. thomsonii. Overall, the findings provide new insights into the evolutionary and domestication history of the Pueraria genome and offer a valuable genomic resource for genetic improvement of these species.
PMID: 38809753
Sci Rep , IF:4.379 , 2024 May , V14 (1) : P11451 doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-61525-1
Cloning of the Arabidopsis SMAP2 promoter and analysis of its expression activity.
College of Life Sciences, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, People's Republic of China.; TECON Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Suzhou, 215000, People's Republic of China.; College of Life Sciences, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, People's Republic of China. mingw@jlau.edu.cn.
The SMALL ACIDIC PROTEIN (SMAP) gene is evolutionarily indispensable for organisms. There are two copies of the SMAP gene in the Arabidopsis thaliana genome, namely, SMAP1 and SMAP2. The function of SMAP2 is similar to that of SMAP1, and both can mediate 2,4-D responses in the root of Arabidopsis. This study cloned the AtSMAP2 genetic promoter sequence. Two promoter fragments of different lengths were designed according to the distribution of their cis-acting elements, and the corresponding beta- glucuronidase (GUS) expression vector was constructed. The expression activity of promoters of two lengths, 1993 bp and 997 bp, was studied by the genetic transformation in Arabidopsis. The prediction results of cis-acting elements in the promoter show that there are many hormone response elements in 997 bp, such as three abscisic acid response elements ABRE, gibberellin response elements P-box and GARE-motif and auxin response element AuxRR-core. Through GUS histochemical staining and qRT‒PCR analysis, it was found that the higher promoter activity of P(AtSMAP2-997), compared to P(AtSMAP2-1993), drove the expression of GUS genes at higher levels in Arabidopsis, especially in the root system. The results provide an important basis for subsequent studies on the regulation of AtSMAP2 gene expression and biological functions.
PMID: 38769443
Sci Rep , IF:4.379 , 2024 May , V14 (1) : P10710 doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-61576-4
Integrated multi-omic approach reveals the effect of a Graminaceae-derived biostimulant and its lighter fraction on salt-stressed lettuce plants.
Faculty of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences, Free University of Bozen/Bolzano, 39100, Bolzano, Italy.; Department for Sustainable Food Process, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy.; Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055, Portici, Italy.; Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, 01100, Viterbo, Italy.; Faculty of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences, Free University of Bozen/Bolzano, 39100, Bolzano, Italy. youry.pii@unibz.it.
Plant biostimulants are widely applied in agriculture for their ability to improve plant fitness. In the present work, the impact of Graminaceae-derived protein hydrolysate (P) and its lighter molecular fraction F3 (< 1 kDa) on lettuce plants, subjected to either no salt or high salt conditions, was investigated through the combination of metabolomics and transcriptomics. The results showed that both treatments significantly modulated the transcriptome and metabolome of plants under salinity stress, highlighting an induction of the hormonal response. Nevertheless, P and F3 also displayed several peculiarities. F3 specifically modulated the response to ethylene and MAPK signaling pathway, whereas P treatment induced a down-accumulation of secondary metabolites, albeit genes controlling the biosynthesis of osmoprotectants and antioxidants were up-regulated. Moreover, according with the auxin response modulation, P promoted cell wall biogenesis and plasticity in salt-stressed plants. Notably, our data also outlined an epigenetic control of gene expression induced by P treatment. Contrarily, experimental data are just partially in agreement when not stressed plants, treated with P or F3, were considered. Indeed, the reduced accumulation of secondary metabolites and the analyses of hormone pathways modulation would suggest a preferential allocation of resources towards growth, that is not coherent with the down-regulation of the photosynthetic machinery, the CO(2) assimilation rate and leaves biomass. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that, although they might activate different mechanisms, both the P and F3 can result in similar benefits, as far as the accumulation of protective osmolytes and the enhanced tolerance to oxidative stress are concerned. Notably, the F3 fraction exhibits slightly greater growth promotion effects under high salt conditions. Most importantly, this research further corroborates that biostimulants' mode of action is dependent on plants' physiological status and their composition, underscoring the importance of investigating the bioactivity of the different molecular components to design tailored applications for the agricultural practice.
PMID: 38729985
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2024 May , V212 : P108761 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108761
Abscisic acid induces PpeKIL1 to terminate fruit growth and promote fruit abortion in peach (Prunus persica).
Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Germplasm Innovation and Utilization (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Genetic Improvement and Eco-Physiology of Anhui Province, Institute of Horticulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China. Electronic address: huichou1987@126.com.; Soil and Fertilizer Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China. Electronic address: wangxiao@aaas.org.cn.; Egyptian Deserts Genbank, Desert Research Center, Cairo, Egypt. Electronic address: mohamed.amar@wbgcas.cn.; Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Germplasm Innovation and Utilization (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Genetic Improvement and Eco-Physiology of Anhui Province, Institute of Horticulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China. Electronic address: shengyu@aaas.org.cn.; Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Germplasm Innovation and Utilization (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Genetic Improvement and Eco-Physiology of Anhui Province, Institute of Horticulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China. Electronic address: spei2491@gmail.com.; School of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, No. 130, Changjiangxi Road, Hefei, 230036, China. Electronic address: 978221324@qq.com.; School of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, No. 130, Changjiangxi Road, Hefei, 230036, China. Electronic address: wangyunyun@stu.ahau.edu.cn.; Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Germplasm Innovation and Utilization (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Genetic Improvement and Eco-Physiology of Anhui Province, Institute of Horticulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China. Electronic address: xieqingmei@aaas.org.cn.; Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Germplasm Innovation and Utilization (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Genetic Improvement and Eco-Physiology of Anhui Province, Institute of Horticulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China. Electronic address: 543613921@qq.com.; Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Germplasm Innovation and Utilization (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Genetic Improvement and Eco-Physiology of Anhui Province, Institute of Horticulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China. Electronic address: panhaifa@aaas.org.cn.; Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Germplasm Innovation and Utilization (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), Key Laboratory of Horticultural Crop Genetic Improvement and Eco-Physiology of Anhui Province, Institute of Horticulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China. Electronic address: jinyunzhang600@163.com.
Abnormal pollination from chance events or hybridization between species leads to unusual embryo development, resulting in fruit abortion. To elucidate the mechanism underlying fruit abortion, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the transcriptome and hormone profiles in aborting fruits (AF) derived from an interspecific cross between the peach cultivar 'Huangjinmi 3' and the Prunus mume cultivar 'Jiangmei', as well as in normal-seeded fruits (NF) resulting from an intraspecific cross of 'Huangjinmi 3' with the 'Manyuanhong' peach cultivars. Growth of AF was inhibited during the exponential growth phase, with up-regulation of oxidative stress related genes and down-regulation of DNA replication and cell cycle genes. Accumulation of the tissue growth-related hormones auxin and cytokinin was reduced in AF, while levels of the growth inhibiting hormone abscisic acid (ABA) were higher compared to NF. The increased ABA concentration aligned with down-regulation of the ABA catabolism gene CYP707A2, which encodes abscisic acid 8'-hydroxylase. Correlation analysis showed ABA could explain the maximum proportion of differently expressed genes between NF and AF. We also showed that expression of KIRA1-LIKE1 (PpeKIL1), a peach ortholog of the Arabidopsis KIRA1 gene, was up-regulated in AF. PpeKIL1 promotes senescence or delays normal growth in tobacco and Arabidopsis, and its promoter activity increases with exogenous ABA treatment. Our study demonstrates a candidate mechanism where ABA induces expression of PpeKIL1, which further blocks normal fruit growth and triggers fruit abscission.
PMID: 38805756
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2024 May , V212 : P108731 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108731
Seed endophytic bacterium Lysinibacillus sp. (ZM1) from maize (Zea mays L.) shapes its root architecture through modulation of auxin biosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism.
Centre of Advanced Study in Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221005, India; Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 276957612, USA. Electronic address: gpal@ncsu.edu.; National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India.; Centre of Advanced Study in Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221005, India.; Department of Plant Biology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.; Centre of Advanced Study in Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221005, India. Electronic address: skverma.bot@bhu.ac.in.
Seed endophytic bacteria have been shown to promote the growth and development of numerous plants. However, the underlying mechanism still needs to be better understood. The present study aims to investigate the role of a seed endophytic bacterium Lysinibacillus sp. (ZM1) in promoting plant growth and shaping the root architecture of maize seedlings. The study explores how bacteria-mediated auxin biosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism affect plant growth promotion and shape the root architecture of maize seedlings. The results demonstrate that ZM1 inoculation significantly enhances root length, root biomass, and the number of seminal roots in maize seedlings. Additionally, the treated seedlings exhibit increased shoot biomass and higher levels of photosynthetic pigments. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) analysis revealed extensive colonization of ZM1 on root hairs, as well as in the cortical and stellar regions of the root. Furthermore, LC-MS analysis demonstrated elevated auxin content in the roots of the ZM1 treated maize seedlings compared to the uninoculated control. Inoculation with ZM1 significantly increased the levels of endogenous ammonium content, GS, and GOGAT enzyme activities in the roots of treated maize seedlings compared to the control, indicating enhanced nitrogen metabolism. Furthermore, inoculation of bacteria under nitrogen-deficient conditions enhanced plant growth, as evidenced by increased root shoot length, fresh and dry weights, average number of seminal roots, and content of photosynthetic pigments. Transcript analysis indicated upregulation of auxin biosynthetic genes, along with genes involved in nitrogen metabolism at different time points in roots of ZM1-treated maize seedlings. Collectively, our findings highlight the positive impact of Lysinibacillus sp. ZM1 inoculation on maize seeds by improving root architecture through modulation of auxin biosynthesis and affecting various nitrogen metabolism related parameters. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential utilization of seed endophytic bacteria as biofertilizers to enhance plant growth and yield in nutrient deficient soils.
PMID: 38761545
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2024 Jun , V211 : P108676 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108676
Identification and functional characterization of ABC transporters for selenium accumulation and tolerance in soybean.
National R&D for Se-rich Agricultural Products Processing Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, 430023, China; School of Modern Industry for Selenium Science and Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, 430023, China.; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Medicinal Resources Protection and Genetic Improvement, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, 530023, China. Electronic address: leiming@gxyyzwy.com.; National R&D for Se-rich Agricultural Products Processing Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, 430023, China; School of Modern Industry for Selenium Science and Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, 430023, China. Electronic address: lily7819@whpu.edu.cn.
ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters were crucial for various physiological processes like nutrition, development, and environmental interactions. Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for humans, and its role in plants depends on applied dosage. ABC transporters are considered to participate in Se translocation in plants, but detailed studies in soybean are still lacking. We identified 196 ABC genes in soybean transcriptome under Se exposure using next-generation sequencing and single-molecule real-time sequencing technology. These proteins fell into eight subfamilies: 8 GmABCA, 51 GmABCB, 39 GmABCC, 5 GmABCD, 1 GmABCE, 10 GmABCF, 74 GmABCG, and 8 GmABCI, with amino acid length 121-3022 aa, molecular weight 13.50-341.04 kDa, and isoelectric point 4.06-9.82. We predicted a total of 15 motifs, some of which were specific to certain subfamilies (especially GmABCB, GmABCC, and GmABCG). We also found predicted alternative splicing in GmABCs: 60 events in selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs)-treated, 37 in sodium selenite (Na(2)SeO(3))-treated samples. The GmABC genes showed differential expression in leaves and roots under different application of Se species and Se levels, most of which are belonged to GmABCB, GmABCC, and GmABCG subfamilies with functions in auxin transport, barrier formation, and detoxification. Protein-protein interaction and weighted gene co-expression network analysis suggested functional gene networks with hub ABC genes, contributing to our understanding of their biological functions. Our results illuminate the contributions of GmABC genes to Se accumulation and tolerance in soybean and provide insight for a better understanding of their roles in soybean as well as in other plants.
PMID: 38714125
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2024 May , V210 : P108630 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108630
WRKY transcription factors modulate flowering time and response to environmental changes.
Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Grassland Resources and Ecology in the Yellow River Delta, College of Grassland Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China; Qingdao Key Laboratory of Specialty Plant Germplasm Innovation and Utilization in Saline Soils of Coastal Beach, College of Grassland Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China. Electronic address: biosonghui@outlook.com.; Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Grassland Resources and Ecology in the Yellow River Delta, College of Grassland Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China; Qingdao Key Laboratory of Specialty Plant Germplasm Innovation and Utilization in Saline Soils of Coastal Beach, College of Grassland Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China.; Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Peanut, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, PR China, Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Qingdao 266000, China.
WRKY transcription factors (TFs), originating in green algae, regulate flowering time and responses to environmental changes in plants. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of WRKY TFs in the correlation between flowering time and environmental changes remain unclear. Therefore, this review summarizes the association of WRKY TFs with flowering pathways to accelerate or delay flowering. WRKY TFs are implicated in phytohormone pathways, such as ethylene, auxin, and abscisic acid pathways, to modulate flowering time. WRKY TFs can modulate salt tolerance by regulating flowering time. WRKY TFs exhibit functional divergence in modulating environmental changes and flowering time. In summary, WRKY TFs are involved in complex pathways and modulate response to environmental changes, thus regulating flowering time.
PMID: 38657548
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2024 May , V210 : P108607 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108607
Arabidopsis CDF3 transcription factor increases carbon and nitrogen assimilation and yield in trans-grafted tomato plants.
Biotecmed, Universitat de Valencia, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.; Departamento de Produccion Vegetal, Universitat Politecnica de Valencia (UPV), Valencia, Spain.; Joint Research Unit UJI-UPV Improvement of Agri-Food Quality, COMAV, Universitat Politecnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain.; Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas (CBGP), CSIC/UPM-INIA, Madrid, Spain.; Centro de Biotecnologia y Genomica de Plantas (CBGP), CSIC/UPM-INIA, Madrid, Spain. Electronic address: medina.joaquin@inia.csic.es.; Joint Research Unit UJI-UPV Improvement of Agri-Food Quality, COMAV, Universitat Politecnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain. Electronic address: rvmolina@upv.edu.es.; Joint Research Unit UJI-UPV Improvement of Agri-Food Quality, COMAV, Universitat Politecnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain. Electronic address: sergonne@upv.edu.es.
Grafting in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) has mainly been used to prevent damage by soil-borne pathogens and the negative effects of abiotic stresses, although productivity and fruit quality can also be enhanced using high vigor rootstocks. In the context of a low nutrients input agriculture, the grafting of elite cultivars onto rootstocks displaying higher Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) supports a direct strategy for yield maximization. In this study we assessed the use of plants overexpressing the Arabidopsis (AtCDF3) or tomato (SlCDF3) CDF3 genes, previously reported to increase NUE in tomato, as rootstocks to improve yield in the grafted scion under low N inputs. We found that the AtCDF3 gene induced greater production of sugars and amino acids, which allowed for greater biomass and fruit yield under both sufficient and limiting N supplies. Conversely, no positive impact was found with the SlCDF3 gene. Hormone analyses suggest that gibberellins (GA(4)), auxin and cytokinins (tZ) might be involved in the AtCDF3 responses to N. The differential responses triggered by the two genes could be related, at least in part, to the mobility of the AtCDF3 transcript through the phloem to the shoot. Consistently, a higher expression of the target genes of the transcription factor, such as glutamine synthase 2 (SlGS2) and GA oxidase 3 (SlGA3ox), involved in amino acid and gibberellin biosynthesis, respectively, was observed in the leaves of this graft combination. Altogether, our results provided further insights into the mode of action of CDF3 genes and their biotechnology potential for transgrafting approaches.
PMID: 38593486
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2024 May , V210 : P108592 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108592
Azelaic acid can efficiently compete for the auxin binding site TIR1, altering auxin polar transport, gravitropic response, and root growth and architecture in Arabidopsisthaliana roots.
Universidade de Vigo. Departamento de Bioloxia Vexetal e Ciencias do Solo, Facultade de Bioloxia, Campus Lagoas-Marcosende s/n, 36310, Vigo, Spain; Instituto de Agroecoloxia e Alimentacion (IAA). Universidade de Vigo - Campus Auga, 32004, Ourense, Spain.; Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali - Produzione, Territorio, Agroenergia, Universita Statale di Milano, Via Celoria n masculine2, 20133, Milano, Italy. Electronic address: fabrizio.araniti@unimi.it.; Departamento de Quimica Organica, Facultade de Quimica, Universidade de Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Spain; Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria Galicia Sur, Hospital Alvaro Cunqueiro, 36213, Vigo, Spain.
The present study investigates the phytotoxic potential of azelaic acid (AZA) on Arabidopsis thaliana roots. Effects on root morphology, anatomy, auxin content and transport, gravitropic response and molecular docking were analysed. AZA inhibited root growth, stimulated lateral and adventitious roots, and altered the root apical meristem by reducing meristem cell number, length and width. The treatment also slowed down the roots' gravitropic response, likely due to a reduction in statoliths, starch-rich organelles involved in gravity perception. In addition, auxin content, transport and distribution, together with PIN proteins' expression and localisation were altered after AZA treatment, inducing a reduction in auxin transport and its distribution into the meristematic zone. Computational simulations showed that AZA has a high affinity for the auxin receptor TIR1, competing with auxin for the binding site. The AZA binding with TIR1 could interfere with the normal functioning of the TIR1/AFB complex, disrupting the ubiquitin E3 ligase complex and leading to alterations in the response of the plant, which could perceive AZA as an exogenous auxin. Our results suggest that AZA mode of action could involve the modulation of auxin-related processes in Arabidopsis roots. Understanding such mechanisms could lead to find environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic herbicides.
PMID: 38569422
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2024 May , V210 : P108570 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108570
Identification and characterization of the WOX Gene Family revealed two WUS Clade Members associated with embryo development in Cunninghamia lanceolata.
The State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, China.; The State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, China. Electronic address: huanghh@zafu.edu.cn.; The State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, China. Electronic address: zjulep@hotmail.com.
The WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) gene family is vital for plant development and stress response. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of WOX genes in Cunninghamia lanceolata (C. lanceolata) and subsequently explored the potential roles of two ClWOX genes within the WUS clade. In total, six ClWOX genes were identified through a full-length transcriptome analysis. These genes, exhibiting conserved structural and functional motifs, were assigned to the ancient clade and Modern/WUS clade, respectively, through a phylogenetic analysis. Our expression analysis indicated that these ClWOX genes were highly expressed in the middle and late developmental stages of zygotic embryos in C. lanceolata. Moreover, only ClWOX5 and ClWOX6 within the Modern/WUS clade exhibited transcriptional activity, and their expressions were also induced in response to auxin and wounding. Overexpression of ClWOX5 and ClWOX6 in Arabidopsis caused a partially sterile phenotype, resulting in a very low seed setting rate. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that expressions of many embryo-defective (EMB) genes, phytohormone-related genes, and transcription factors (TFs) were dramatically altered in ClWOX5 and ClWOX6 transgenic plants, which suggested that ClWOX5 and ClWOX6 may play specific important roles in embryo development via complex gene networks. In addition, overexpression of ClWOX5 and ClWOX6 in leaf segments promoted shoot regeneration in tobacco, indicating that ClWOX5 and ClWOX6 can promote plant regeneration and could be used to improve genetic transformation. In conclusion, these results help to elucidate the function of the WOX gene and provide a valuable basis for future studies of the developmental regulation and applications of WOX genes in C. lanceolata.
PMID: 38560957
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2024 May , V210 : P108543 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108543
Regulatory mechanism of GA(3) application on grape (Vitis vinifera L.) berry size.
College of Horticulture, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, PR China.; College of Horticulture, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, PR China; School of Agronomy and Horticulture, Jiangsu Vocational College of Agriculture and Forestry, Jurong, 212400, PR China.; College of Horticulture, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, PR China. Electronic address: maojuan@gsau.edu.cn.; College of Horticulture, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, PR China. Electronic address: bhch@gsau.edu.cn.
Gibberellin A(3) (GA(3)) is often used as a principal growth regulator to increase plant size. Here, we applied Tween-20 (2%)-formulated GA(3) (T1:40 mg/L; T2:70 mg/L) by dipping the clusters at the initial expansion phase of 'Red Globe' grape (Vitis vinifera L.) in 2018 and 2019. Tween-20 (2%) was used as a control. The results showed that GA(3) significantly increased fruit cell length, cell size, diameter, and volume. The hormone levels of auxin (IAA) and zeatin (ZT) were significantly increased at 2 h (0 d) -1 d after application (DAA0-1) and remained significantly higher at DAA1 until maturity. Conversely, ABA exhibited an opposite trend. The mRNA and non-coding sequencing results yielded 436 differentially expressed mRNA (DE_mRNAs), 79 DE_lncRNAs and 17 DE_miRNAs. These genes are linked to hormone pathways like cysteine and methionine metabolism (ko00270), glutathione metabolism (ko00480) and plant hormone signal transduction (ko04075). GA(3) application reduced expression of insensitive dwarf 2 (GID2, VIT_07s0129g01000), small auxin-upregulated RNA (SAUR, VIT_08s0007g03120) and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase (ACS, VIT_18s0001g08520), but increased SAUR (VIT_04s0023g00560) expression. These four genes were predicted to be negatively regulated by vvi-miR156, vvi-miR172, vvi-miR396, and vvi-miR159, corresponding to specific lncRNAs. Therefore, miRNAs could affect grape size by regulating key genes GID2, ACS and SAUR. The R2R3 MYB family member VvRAX2 (VIT_08s0007g05030) was upregulated in response to GA(3) application. Overexpression of VvRAX2 in tomato transgenic lines increased fruit size in contrast to the wild type. This study provides a basis and genetic resources for elucidating the novel role of ncRNAs in fruit development.
PMID: 38554534
Environ Sci Pollut Res Int , IF:4.223 , 2024 May doi: 10.1007/s11356-024-33527-z
Evaluation of commercial importance of endophytes isolated from Argemone mexicana and Papaver rhoeas.
Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.; Department of Chemistry, Cotton University, Guwahati, Assam, India.; Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. spaul@amity.edu.
The paper industry is a composite one constituting different types of mills, processes, and products. The paper industries consume large amounts of resources, like wood and water. These industries also create huge amounts of waste that have to be treated. In our study, 23 endophytic bacteria were isolated from Argemone mexicana, and 16 endophytic bacteria were isolated from Papaver rhoeas. Seventeen and 15 bacterial endophytes from A. mexicana and P. rhoeas, respectively, showed cellulose-degrading activity. The biochemical and molecular characterization were done for endophytic bacteria with cellulolytic activity. The consortium of cellulose-degrading endophytic bacteria from A. mexicana showed endoglucanase activity (0.462 IU/ml) and FPCase enzyme activity (0.269 IU/ml) and from P. rhoeas gave endoglucanase activity (0.439 IU/ml) and FPCase enzyme activity (0.253 IU/ml). Degraded carboxy methylcellulose and filter paper were further treated by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and bioethanol was produced. Cellulose-degrading endophytic bacteria were also tested for auxin, siderophore production, and phosphate solubilization activities. Individual cellulose-degrading endophytic bacteria with plant growth-promoting activities were used as biofertilizers, tested for plant growth-promoting activities using Basmati Pusa 1121 rice, and plant growth parameters were recorded. The degraded paper enhances the growth of rice plants. Selected bacterial endophytes and their consortia from A. mexicana and P. rhoeas were powerful cellulose degraders, which can be further employed for ethanol production and as significant biofertilizers in agriculture.
PMID: 38710850
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2024 May , V24 (1) : P473 doi: 10.1186/s12870-024-05195-1
Integrated analyses of ionomics, phytohormone profiles, transcriptomics, and metabolomics reveal a pivotal role of carbon-nano sol in promoting the growth of tobacco plants.
Zhengzhou Tobacco Research Institute of CNTC, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.; Beijing Life Science Academy (BLSA), Beijing, 102209, China.; School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.; Zhengzhou Tobacco Research Institute of CNTC, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. chen_qiansi@163.com.; Beijing Life Science Academy (BLSA), Beijing, 102209, China. chen_qiansi@163.com.
BACKGROUND: Carbon nano sol (CNS) can markedly affect the plant growth and development. However, few systematic analyses have been conducted on the underlying regulatory mechanisms in plants, including tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.). RESULTS: Integrated analyses of phenome, ionome, transcriptome, and metabolome were performed in this study to elucidate the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the CNS-promoting growth of tobacco plants. We found that 0.3% CNS, facilitating the shoot and root growth of tobacco plants, significantly increased shoot potassium concentrations. Antioxidant, metabolite, and phytohormone profiles showed that 0.3% CNS obviously reduced reactive oxygen species production and increased antioxidant enzyme activity and auxin accumulation. Comparative transcriptomics revealed that the GO and KEGG terms involving responses to oxidative stress, DNA binding, and photosynthesis were highly enriched in response to exogenous CNS application. Differential expression profiling showed that NtNPF7.3/NtNRT1.5, potentially involved in potassium/auxin transport, was significantly upregulated under the 0.3% CNS treatment. High-resolution metabolic fingerprints showed that 141 and 163 metabolites, some of which were proposed as growth regulators, were differentially accumulated in the roots and shoots under the 0.3% CNS treatment, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, this study revealed the physiological and molecular mechanism underlying CNS-mediated growth promotion in tobacco plants, and these findings provide potential support for improving plant growth through the use of CNS.
PMID: 38811869
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2024 May , V24 (1) : P447 doi: 10.1186/s12870-024-05159-5
Blocking of amino acid transporter OsAAP7 promoted tillering and yield by determining basic and neutral amino acids accumulation in rice.
Institute of Rice Industry Technology Research, Key Laboratory of Functional Agriculture of Guizhou Provincial, Department of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Breeding for Grain and oil Crops in Guizhou Province, College of Agricultural Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China.; Institute of Rice Industry Technology Research, Key Laboratory of Functional Agriculture of Guizhou Provincial, Department of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Breeding for Grain and oil Crops in Guizhou Province, College of Agricultural Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China. zmfang@gzu.edu.cn.; Key Laboratory of Plant Resource Conservation and Germplasm Innovation in Mountainous Region (Ministry of Education), Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China. zmfang@gzu.edu.cn.
BACKGROUND: Amino acids are not only the main form of N in rice, but also are vital for its growth and development. These processes are facilitated by amino acid transporters within the plant. Despite their significance, only a few AAP amino acid transporters have been reported. RESULTS: In this study, we observed that there were differences in the expression of amino acid transporter OsAAP7 among 521 wild cultivated rice varieties, and it directly negatively correlated with tillering and grain yield per plant. We revealed that OsAAP7 protein was localized to the endoplasmic reticulum and had absorption and transport affinity for amino acids such as phenylalanine (Phe), lysine (Lys), leucine (Leu), and arginine (Arg) using subcellular localization, yeast substrate testing, fluorescent amino acid uptake, and amino acid content determination. Further hydroponic studies showed that exogenous application of amino acids Phe, Lys and Arg inhibited the growth of axillary buds in the overexpression lines, and promoted the elongation of axillary buds in the mutant lines. Finally, RNA-seq analysis showed that the expression patterns of genes related to nitrogen, auxin and cytokinin pathways were changed in axillary buds of OsAAP7 transgenic plants. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed the gene function of OsAAP7, and found that blocking of amino acid transporter OsAAP7 with CRISPR/Cas9 technology promoted tillering and yield by determining basic and neutral amino acids accumulation in rice.
PMID: 38783192
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2024 May , V24 (1) : P418 doi: 10.1186/s12870-024-05106-4
Ethylene promotes fruit ripening initiation by downregulating photosynthesis, enhancing abscisic acid and suppressing jasmonic acid in blueberry (Vaccinium ashei).
Department of Horticulture, University of Georgia, 1111 Miller Plant Sciences Building, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.; Center for Applied Genetic Technologies, University of Georgia, 111 Riverbend Road, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.; Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics & Genomics, University of Georgia, 111 Riverbend Road, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.; Department of Horticulture, University of Georgia, 1111 Miller Plant Sciences Building, Athens, GA, 30602, USA. sunamb@uga.edu.
BACKGROUND: Blueberry fruit exhibit atypical climacteric ripening with a non-auto-catalytic increase in ethylene coincident with initiation of ripening. Further, application of ethephon, an ethylene-releasing plant growth regulator, accelerates ripening by increasing the proportion of ripe (blue) fruit as compared to the control treatment. To investigate the mechanistic role of ethylene in regulating blueberry ripening, we performed transcriptome analysis on fruit treated with ethephon, an ethylene-releasing plant growth regulator. RESULTS: RNA-Sequencing was performed on two sets of rabbiteye blueberry ('Powderblue') fruit: (1) fruit from divergent developmental stages; and (2) fruit treated with ethephon, an ethylene-releasing compound. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from divergent developmental stages clustered into nine groups, among which cluster 1 displayed reduction in expression during ripening initiation and was enriched with photosynthesis related genes, while cluster 7 displayed increased expression during ripening and was enriched with aromatic-amino acid family catabolism genes, suggesting stimulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis. More DEGs were apparent at 1 day after ethephon treatment suggesting its early influence during ripening initiation. Overall, a higher number of genes were downregulated in response to ethylene. Many of these overlapped with cluster 1 genes, indicating that ethylene-mediated downregulation of photosynthesis is an important developmental event during the ripening transition. Analyses of DEGs in response to ethylene also indicated interplay among phytohormones. Ethylene positively regulated abscisic acid (ABA), negatively regulated jasmonates (JAs), and influenced auxin (IAA) metabolism and signaling genes. Phytohormone quantification supported these effects of ethylene, indicating coordination of blueberry fruit ripening by ethylene. CONCLUSION: This study provides insights into the role of ethylene in blueberry fruit ripening. Ethylene initiates blueberry ripening by downregulating photosynthesis-related genes. Also, ethylene regulates phytohormone-metabolism and signaling related genes, increases ABA, and decreases JA concentrations. Together, these results indicate that interplay among multiple phytohormones regulates the progression of ripening, and that ethylene is an important coordinator of such interactions during blueberry fruit ripening.
PMID: 38760720
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2024 May , V24 (1) : P407 doi: 10.1186/s12870-024-05128-y
Optimizing Cucumis sativus seedling vigor: the role of pistachio wood vinegar and date palm compost in nutrient mobilization.
Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Hormozgan, Bandar Abbas, Iran.; Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Hormozgan, Bandar Abbas, Iran. mirzaalian@hormozgan.ac.ir.; Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jiroft, Jiroft, Iran. a.seiedi@ujiroft.ac.ir.
BACKGROUND: The goal of this research is to enhance the quality of cucumber seedlings grown in greenhouses by experimenting with various soilless culture mediums (CMs) and the application of pistachio wood vinegar (WV). The experimental setup was designed as a factorial experiment within a randomized complete block design (RCBD), in greenhouse conditions featuring three replications to assess the effects of different culture media (CMs) and concentrations of pistachio wood vinegar (WV) on cucumber seedling growth. Cucumber seeds were planted in three CMs: coco peat-peat moss, coco peat-vermicompost, and date palm compost-vermicompost mixed in a 75:25 volume-to-volume ratio. These were then treated with pistachio WV at concentrations of 0, 0.5, and 1%, applied four times during irrigation following the emergence of the third leaf. RESULTS: The study revealed that treating seedlings with 0.5% WV in the date palm compost-vermicompost CM significantly enhanced various growth parameters. Specifically, it resulted in a 90% increase in shoot fresh mass, a 59% increase in shoot dry mass, an 11% increase in root fresh mass, a 36% increase in root dry mass, a 65% increase in shoot length, a 62% increase in leaf area, a 25% increase in stem diameter, a 41% increase in relative water content (RWC), and a 6% improvement in membrane stability index (MSI), all in comparison to untreated seedlings grown in coco peat-peat moss CM. Furthermore, chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid levels were 2.3, 2.7, 2.6, and 2.7 times higher, respectively, in seedlings treated with 0.5% WV and grown in the date palm compost-vermicompost CM, compared to those treated with the same concentration of WV but grown in coco peat-peat moss CM. Additionally, the Fv/Fm ratio saw a 52% increase. When plant nutrition was enhanced with the date palm compost-vermicompost CM and 1% WV, auxin content rose by 130% compared to seedlings grown in coco peat-peat moss CM and treated with 0.5% WV. CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrates that using 0.5% WV in conjunction with date palm compost-vermicompost CM significantly betters the quality of cucumber seedlings, outperforming other treatment combinations.
PMID: 38755531
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2024 May , V24 (1) : P380 doi: 10.1186/s12870-024-05101-9
Elucidating the role of exogenous melatonin in mitigating alkaline stress in soybeans across different growth stages: a transcriptomic and metabolomic approach.
Key Laboratory of Soybean Biology of Chinese Education Ministry, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, PR China.; School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, PR China.; Key Laboratory of Soybean Biology of Chinese Education Ministry, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, PR China. wsdhlj@neau.edu.cn.; Key Laboratory of Soybean Biology of Chinese Education Ministry, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Road, Harbin, 150030, PR China. wangsui.ws@163.com.
BACKGROUND: Soybean (Glycine max), a vital grain and oilseed crop, serves as a primary source of plant protein and oil. Soil salinization poses a significant threat to soybean planting, highlighting the urgency to improve soybean resilience and adaptability to saline stress. Melatonin, recently identified as a key plant growth regulator, plays crucial roles in plant growth, development, and responses to environmental stress. However, the potential of melatonin to mitigate alkali stress in soybeans and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. RESULTS: This study investigated the effects of exogenous melatonin on the soybean cultivar Zhonghuang 13 under alkaline stress. We employed physiological, biochemical, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses throughout both vegetative and pod-filling growth stages. Our findings demonstrate that melatonin significantly counteracts the detrimental effects of alkaline stress on soybean plants, promoting plant growth, photosynthesis, and antioxidant capacity. Transcriptomic analysis during both growth stages under alkaline stress, with and without melatonin treatment, identified 2,834 and 549 differentially expressed genes, respectively. These genes may play a vital role in regulating plant adaptation to abiotic stress. Notably, analysis of phytohormone biosynthesis pathways revealed altered expression of key genes, particularly in the ARF (auxin response factor), AUX/IAA (auxin/indole-3-acetic acid), and GH3 (Gretchen Hagen 3) families, during the early stress response. Metabolomic analysis during the pod-filling stage identified highly expressed metabolites responding to melatonin application, such as uteolin-7-O-(2''-O-rhamnosyl)rutinoside and Hederagenin-3-O-glucuronide-28-O-glucosyl(1,2)glucoside, which helped alleviate the damage caused by alkali stress. Furthermore, we identified 183 differentially expressed transcription factors, potentially playing a critical role in regulating plant adaptation to abiotic stress. Among these, the gene SoyZH13_04G073701 is particularly noteworthy as it regulates the key differentially expressed metabolite, the terpene metabolite Hederagenin-3-O-glucuronide-28-O-glucosyl(1,2)glucoside. WGCNA analysis identified this gene (SoyZH13_04G073701) as a hub gene, positively regulating the crucial differentially expressed metabolite of terpenoids, Hederagenin-3-O-glucuronide-28-O-glucosyl(1,2)glucoside. Our findings provide novel insights into how exogenous melatonin alleviates alkali stress in soybeans at different reproductive stages. CONCLUSIONS: Integrating transcriptomic and metabolomic approaches, our study elucidates the mechanisms by which exogenous melatonin ameliorates the inhibitory effects of alkaline stress on soybean growth and development. This occurs through modulation of biosynthesis pathways for key compounds, including terpenes, flavonoids, and phenolics. Our findings provide initial mechanistic insights into how melatonin mitigates alkaline stress in soybeans, offering a foundation for molecular breeding strategies to enhance salt-alkali tolerance in this crop.
PMID: 38720246
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2024 May , V24 (1) : P367 doi: 10.1186/s12870-024-05033-4
Elucidating the callus-to-shoot-forming mechanism in Capsicum annuum 'Dempsey' through comparative transcriptome analyses.
Department of Biological Sciences, Institute for Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Korea.; Department of Life Science, Multidisciplinary Genome Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, 24252, Korea.; Department of BIT Medical Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Korea.; Department of Biological Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Korea.; Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, 37673, Korea.; Department of Life Science, Multidisciplinary Genome Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, 24252, Korea. dhjeong73@hallym.ac.kr.; Department of Biological Sciences, Institute for Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Korea. ranny@kangwon.ac.kr.; Department of BIT Medical Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Korea. ranny@kangwon.ac.kr.
BACKGROUND: The formation of shoots plays a pivotal role in plant organogenesis and productivity. Despite its significance, the underlying molecular mechanism of de novo regeneration has not been extensively elucidated in Capsicum annuum 'Dempsey', a bell pepper cultivar. To address this, we performed a comparative transcriptome analysis focusing on the differential expression in C. annuum 'Dempsey' shoot, callus, and leaf tissue. We further investigated phytohormone-related biological processes and their interacting genes in the C. annuum 'Dempsey' transcriptome based on comparative transcriptomic analysis across five species. RESULTS: We provided a comprehensive view of the gene networks regulating shoot formation on the callus, revealing a strong involvement of hypoxia responses and oxidative stress. Our comparative transcriptome analysis revealed a significant conservation in the increase of gene expression patterns related to auxin and defense mechanisms in both callus and shoot tissues. Consequently, hypoxia response and defense mechanism emerged as critical regulators in callus and shoot formation in C. annuum 'Dempsey'. Current transcriptome data also indicated a substantial decline in gene expression linked to photosynthesis within regenerative tissues, implying a deactivation of the regulatory system governing photosynthesis in C. annuum 'Dempsey'. CONCLUSION: Coupled with defense mechanisms, we thus considered spatial redistribution of auxin to play a critical role in the shoot morphogenesis via primordia outgrowth. Our findings shed light on shoot formation mechanisms in C. annuum 'Dempsey' explants, important information for regeneration programs, and have broader implications for precise molecular breeding in recalcitrant crops.
PMID: 38711041
Tree Physiol , IF:4.196 , 2024 May , V44 (5) doi: 10.1093/treephys/tpae040
Transcriptional dynamics reveals the asymmetrical events underlying graft union formation in pecan (Carya illinoinensis).
Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO. 1 Road, Qianhuhou Villiage, Xuanwu District, Nanjing 210014, China.; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, NO. 1 Road, Qianhuhou Villiage, Xuanwu District, Nanjing 210014, China.; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for the Germplasm Innovation and Utilization of Pecan, NO. 1 Road, Qianhuhou Villiage, Xuanwu District, Nanjing 210014, China.
Grafting is a widely used technique for pecan propagation; however, the background molecular events underlying grafting are still poorly understood. In our study, the graft partners during pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] graft union formation were separately sampled for RNA-seq, and the transcriptional dynamics were described via weighted gene co-expression network analysis. To reveal the main events underlying grafting, the correlations between modules and grafting traits were analyzed. Functional annotation showed that during the entire graft process, signal transduction was activated in the scion, while messenger RNA splicing was induced in the rootstock. At 2 days after grafting, the main processes occurring in the scion were associated with protein synthesis and processing, while the primary processes occurring in the rootstock were energy release-related. During the period of 7-14 days after grafting, defense response was a critical process taking place in the scion; however, the main process functioning in the rootstock was photosynthesis. From 22 to 32 days after grafting, the principal processes taking place in the scion were jasmonic acid biosynthesis and defense response, whereas the highly activated processes associated with the rootstock were auxin biosynthesis and plant-type secondary cell wall biogenesis. To further prove that the graft partners responded asymmetrically to stress, hydrogen peroxide contents as well as peroxidase and beta-1,3-glucanase activities were detected, and the results showed that their levels were increased in the scion not the rootstock at certain time points after grafting. Our study reveals that the scion and rootstock might respond asymmetrically to grafting in pecan, and the scion was likely associated with stress response, while the rootstock was probably involved in energy supply and xylem bridge differentiation during graft union formation.
PMID: 38598328
Toxics , IF:4.146 , 2024 May , V12 (5) doi: 10.3390/toxics12050374
Effect of Auxin on Cadmium Toxicity-Induced Growth Inhibition in Solanum lycopersicum.
College of Life and Health Sciences, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou 233100, China.; College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
Auxins play crucial regulatory roles in plants coping with cadmium (Cd) stress. However, the regulatory mechanism by which auxins alleviate Cd toxicity in tomato seedlings remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that exposure to Cd stress leads to dynamic changes in the auxin response in tomato roots, characterized by an initial increase followed by a subsequent weakening. Under Cd stress, tomato seedlings show primary root- and hypocotyl-growth inhibition, accompanied by the accumulation of Cd and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the roots. The exogenous application of 1-naphthylacetic acid (NAA) does not mitigate the inhibitory effect of Cd toxicity on primary root growth, but it does significantly enhance lateral root development under Cd stress. Auxin transport inhibitors, such as 1-N-naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA) and 2,3,5-triiodobenoic acid (TIBA), aggravate the growth inhibition of primary roots caused by Cd stress. Additionally, lateral root development was inhibited by NPA. However, applying auxin synthesis inhibitors L-kynurenine (kyn) and yucasin alleviated the tomato root growth inhibition caused by Cd stress; between them, the effect of yucasin was more pronounced. Yucasin mitigates Cd toxicity in tomato seedlings by reducing Cd(2+) absorption and auxin accumulation, strengthening ROS scavenging, and reducing cell death in roots. These observations suggest that yucasin potentially mitigates Cd toxicity and improves the tolerance of tomato seedlings to Cd stress.
PMID: 38787153
FEBS Lett , IF:4.124 , 2024 May doi: 10.1002/1873-3468.14908
l-2-Aminopimelic acid acts as an auxin mimic to induce lateral root formation across diverse plant species.
RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Yokohama, Japan.; Department of Applied Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Science, Nagoya University, Japan.
The identification of chemicals that modulate plant development and adaptive responses to stresses has attracted increasing attention for agricultural applications. Recent basic studies have identified functional amino acids that are essential for plant organogenesis, indicating that amino acids can regulate plant growth. In this study, we newly identified 2-aminopimelic acid (2APA), a nonproteinogenic amino acid, as a novel bioactive compound involved in root morphogenesis. This biological effect was confirmed in several plant species. Our phenotypic analysis revealed that the bioactive 2APA is an l-form stereoisomer. Overall, our study identified a promising root growth regulator and provided insight into the intricate metabolism related to root morphology.
PMID: 38782630
Planta , IF:4.116 , 2024 May , V259 (6) : P144 doi: 10.1007/s00425-024-04364-8
Silicon regulates phosphate deficiency through involvement of auxin and nitric oxide in barley roots.
Crop Nanobiology and Molecular Stress Physiology Lab, Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida, 201313, India.; Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, 211004, India.; Plant Physiology Laboratory, Department of Botany, C.M.P. Degree College, A Constituent Post Graduate College of University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211002, India.; Plant and Microbe Interaction Lab, Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida, 201313, India.; Functional Polymer Material Lab, Department of Chemistry, Harcourt Butler Technical University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, 208002, India.; Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, Haryana, India.; Plant Physiology Laboratory, Department of Botany, C.M.P. Degree College, A Constituent Post Graduate College of University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211002, India. vijaypratap.au@gmail.com.; Crop Nanobiology and Molecular Stress Physiology Lab, Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida, 201313, India. dktripathiau@gmail.com.
Silicon application mitigates phosphate deficiency in barley through an interplay with auxin and nitric oxide, enhancing growth, photosynthesis, and redox balance, highlighting the potential of silicon as a fertilizer for overcoming nutritional stresses. Silicon (Si) is reported to attenuate nutritional stresses in plants, but studies on the effect of Si application to plants grown under phosphate (Pi) deficiency are still very scarce, especially in barley. Therefore, the present work was undertaken to investigate the potential role of Si in mitigating the adverse impacts of Pi deficiency in barley Hordeum vulgare L. (var. BH902). Further, the involvement of two key regulatory signaling molecules--auxin and nitric oxide (NO)--in Si-induced tolerance against Pi deficiency in barley was tested. Morphological attributes, photosynthetic parameters, oxidative stress markers (O(2)(.-), H(2)O(2), and MDA), antioxidant system (enzymatic--APX, CAT, SOD, GR, DHAR, MDHAR as well as non-enzymatic--AsA and GSH), NO content, and proline metabolism were the key traits that were assessed under different treatments. The P deficiency distinctly declined growth of barley seedlings, which was due to enhancement in oxidative stress leading to inhibition of photosynthesis. These results were also in parallel with an enhancement in antioxidant activity, particularly SOD and CAT, and endogenous proline level and its biosynthetic enzyme (P5CS). The addition of Si exhibited beneficial effects on barley plants grown in Pi-deficient medium as reflected in increased growth, photosynthetic activity, and redox balance through the regulation of antioxidant machinery particularly ascorbate-glutathione cycle. We noticed that auxin and NO were also found to be independently participating in Si-mediated improvement of growth and other parameters in barley roots under Pi deficiency. Data of gene expression analysis for PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER1 (HvPHT1) indicate that Si helps in increasing Pi uptake as per the need of Pi-deficient barley seedlings, and also auxin and NO both appear to help Si in accomplishing this task probably by inducing lateral root formation. These results are suggestive of possible application of Si as a fertilizer to correct the negative effects of nutritional stresses in plants. Further research at genetic level to understand Si-induced mechanisms for mitigating Pi deficiency can be helpful in the development of new varieties with improved tolerance against Pi deficiency, especially for cultivation in areas with Pi-deficient soils.
PMID: 38709333
Phytopathology , IF:4.025 , 2024 May , V114 (5) : P1050-1056 doi: 10.1094/PHYTO-10-23-0365-KC
Exogenous Indole-3-Acetic Acid Suppresses Rice Infection of Magnaporthe oryzae by Affecting Plant Resistance and Fungal Growth.
State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, China.
Auxin is an important phytohormone that regulates diverse biologic processes, including plant growth and immunity. Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), known as one of the main forms of auxin, is able to activate plant immunity. However, it is unknown whether IAA enhances plant resistance and/or suppresses the growth of the fungal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae. Here, we found that IAA could induce expression levels of pathogenesis-related genes to enhance disease resistance and could control the development of blast disease through inhibiting M. oryzae infection. Exogenous IAA suppressed mycelial growth and delayed spore germination by inhibiting fungal endogenous IAA biosynthesis and impairing redox homeostasis, respectively. When applied to a field test, two IAA analogues, 1-naphthaleneacetic acid and 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid, can effectively control rice blast disease. Our study advances the understanding of IAA in controlling rice blast disease through suppressing pathogen growth and enhancing plant resistance.
PMID: 38709298
BMC Genomics , IF:3.969 , 2024 May , V25 (1) : P439 doi: 10.1186/s12864-024-10336-9
Meta QTL analysis for dissecting abiotic stress tolerance in chickpea.
Department of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, 125004, India.; Department of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, 125004, India. baliyan.upendra@gmail.com.; Department of Plant Science, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University, Bareilly, 243001, India. baliyan.upendra@gmail.com.; Department of Botany & Plant Physiology, College of Basic Sciences & Humanities, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, 125004, India.; Department of Botany, Deva Nagri P.G. College, CCS University, Meerut, 245206, India.; Biophysics Unit, College of Basic Sciences & Humanities, GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, 263145, India.; Vice-Chancellor's Secretariat, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University, Bareilly, 243001, India.; Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, USA.; Centre for Crop & Food Innovation, State Agricultural Biotechnology Centre, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia.; Khalifa Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates. mroorkiwal@uaeu.ac.ae.; Khalifa Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates.; Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates.; Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir), Srinagar, J&K, India. imrouf2006@gmail.com.
BACKGROUND: Chickpea is prone to many abiotic stresses such as heat, drought, salinity, etc. which cause severe loss in yield. Tolerance towards these stresses is quantitative in nature and many studies have been done to map the loci influencing these traits in different populations using different markers. This study is an attempt to meta-analyse those reported loci projected over a high-density consensus map to provide a more accurate information on the regions influencing heat, drought, cold and salinity tolerance in chickpea. RESULTS: A meta-analysis of QTL reported to be responsible for tolerance to drought, heat, cold and salinity stress tolerance in chickpeas was done. A total of 1512 QTL responsible for the concerned abiotic stress tolerance were collected from literature, of which 1189 were projected on a chickpea consensus genetic map. The QTL meta-analysis predicted 59 MQTL spread over all 8 chromosomes, responsible for these 4 kinds of abiotic stress tolerance in chickpea. The physical locations of 23 MQTL were validated by various marker-trait associations and genome-wide association studies. Out of these reported MQTL, CaMQAST1.1, CaMQAST4.1, CaMQAST4.4, CaMQAST7.8, and CaMQAST8.2 were suggested to be useful for different breeding approaches as they were responsible for high per cent variance explained (PVE), had small intervals and encompassed a large number of originally reported QTL. Many putative candidate genes that might be responsible for directly or indirectly conferring abiotic stress tolerance were identified in the region covered by 4 major MQTL- CaMQAST1.1, CaMQAST4.4, CaMQAST7.7, and CaMQAST6.4, such as heat shock proteins, auxin and gibberellin response factors, etc. CONCLUSION: The results of this study should be useful for the breeders and researchers to develop new chickpea varieties which are tolerant to drought, heat, cold, and salinity stresses.
PMID: 38698307
Pestic Biochem Physiol , IF:3.963 , 2024 May , V201 : P105882 doi: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105882
Pro197Ser and the new Trp574Leu mutations together with enhanced metabolism contribute to cross-resistance to ALS inhibiting herbicides in Sinapis alba.
University of Carthage, National Institute of Agronomy of Tunisia, LR14AGR02, Department of Plant Health and Environment, 1082, Tunis, Tunisia; Department of Agricultural and Forest Sciences and Engineering, ETSEAFiV, AGROTECNIO-CERCA Center, University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain.; Plant Protection Department, Extremadura Scientific and Technological Research Center (CICYTEX), Ctra. de AV, km 372, Badajoz, 06187, Guadajira, Spain.; Agroforestry and Plant Biochemistry, Proteomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Cordoba, UCO-CeiA3, Cordoba 14014, Spain.; Institute for Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology (IBMCP), Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Valencia ES-46022, Spain.; Department of Agricultural and Forest Sciences and Engineering, ETSEAFiV, AGROTECNIO-CERCA Center, University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain. Electronic address: joel.torra@udl.cat.; University of Carthage, National Institute of Agronomy of Tunisia, LR14AGR02, Department of Plant Health and Environment, 1082, Tunis, Tunisia.
White mustard, (Sinapis alba), a problematic broadleaf weed in many Mediterranean countries in arable fields has been detected as resistant to tribenuron-methyl in Tunisia. Greenhouse and laboratory studies were conducted to characterize Target-Site Resistance (TSR) and the Non-Target Site Resistance (NTSR) mechanisms in two suspected white mustard biotypes. Herbicide dose-response experiments confirmed that the two S. alba biotypes were resistant to four dissimilar acetolactate synthase (ALS)-pinhibiting herbicide chemistries indicating the presence of cross-resistance mechanisms. The highest resistance factor (>144) was attributed to tribenuron-methyl herbicide and both R populations survived up to 64-fold the recommended field dose (18.7 g ai ha(-1)). In this study, the metabolism experiments with malathion (a cytochrome P450 inhibitor) showed that malathion reduced resistance to tribenuron-methyl and imazamox in both populations, indicating that P450 may be involved in the resistance. Sequence analysis of the ALS gene detected target site mutations in the two R biotypes, with amino acid substitutions Trp574Leu, the first report for the species, and Pro197Ser. Molecular docking analysis showed that ALS(Pro197Ser) enzyme cannot properly bind to tribenuron-methyl's aromatic ring due to a reduction in the number of hydrogen bonds, while imazamox can still bind. However, Trp574Leu can weaken the binding affinity between the mutated ALS enzyme and both herbicides with the loss of crucial interactions. This investigation provides substantial evidence for the risk of evolving multiple resistance in S. alba to auxin herbicides while deciphering the TSR and NTSR mechanisms conferring cross resistance to ALS inhibitors.
PMID: 38685248
Pestic Biochem Physiol , IF:3.963 , 2024 May , V201 : P105911 doi: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105911
An Asp376Glu substitution and P450s-involved metabolism endow resistance to ALS inhibitors in an Ammannia auriculata Willd. Population.
College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.; Jiangsu Lixiahe District Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Yangzhou, China.; College of Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China. Electronic address: yuansz10201@163.com.
Ammannia auriculata Willd. is a noxious broadleaf weed, commonly infesting rice ecosystems across southern China. A putative resistant A. auriculata population (AHSC-5) was sampled from a rice field of Anhui Province, where bensulfuron-methyl (BM) was unable to control its occurrence. This study aimed to determine the sensitivities of the AHSC-5 population to common-use herbicides, and to investigate the underlying resistance mechanisms. The bioassays showed that the AHSC-5 population was 138.1-fold resistant to BM, compared with the susceptible population (JSGL-1). Pretreatment of malathion reduced the resistance index to 19.5. ALS sequencing revealed an Asp376Glu substitution in the AHSC-5 population, and in vitro ALS activity assays found that 50% activity inhibition (I(50)) of BM in AHSC-5 was 75.4 times higher than that of JSGL-1. Moreover, the AHSC-5 population displayed cross-resistance to pyrazosulfuron-ethyl (10.6-fold), bispyribac‑sodium (3.6-fold), and imazethapyr (2.2-fold), and was in the process of evolving multiple resistance to synthetic auxin herbicides fluroxypyr (2.3-fold) and florpyrauxifen-benzyl (3.1-fold). This study proved the BM resistance in A. auriculata caused by the Asp376Glu mutation and P450-regulated metabolism. This multi-resistant population can still be controlled by penoxsulam, MCPA, bentazone, and carfentrazone-ethyl, which aids in developing targeted and effective weed management strategies.
PMID: 38685231
Plants (Basel) , IF:3.935 , 2024 May , V13 (10) doi: 10.3390/plants13101383
Octoploids Show Enhanced Salt Tolerance through Chromosome Doubling in Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.).
Institute of Grassland, Flowers and Ecology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China.; State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China.; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China.
Polyploid plants often exhibit enhanced stress tolerance. Switchgrass is a perennial rhizomatous bunchgrass that is considered ideal for cultivation in marginal lands, including sites with saline soil. In this study, we investigated the physiological responses and transcriptome changes in the octoploid and tetraploid of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L. 'Alamo') under salt stress. We found that autoploid 8x switchgrass had enhanced salt tolerance compared with the amphidiploid 4x precursor, as indicated by physiological and phenotypic traits. Octoploids had increased salt tolerance by significant changes to the osmoregulatory and antioxidant systems. The salt-treated 8x Alamo plants showed greater potassium (K(+)) accumulation and an increase in the K(+)/Na(+) ratio. Root transcriptome analysis for octoploid and tetraploid plants with or without salt stress revealed that 302 upregulated and 546 downregulated differentially expressed genes were enriched in genes involved in plant hormone signal transduction pathways and were specifically associated with the auxin, cytokinin, abscisic acid, and ethylene pathways. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) detected four significant salt stress-related modules. This study explored the changes in the osmoregulatory system, inorganic ions, antioxidant enzyme system, and the root transcriptome in response to salt stress in 8x and 4x Alamo switchgrass. The results enhance knowledge of the salt tolerance of artificially induced homologous polyploid plants and provide experimental and sequencing data to aid research on the short-term adaptability and breeding of salt-tolerant biofuel plants.
PMID: 38794454
Plants (Basel) , IF:3.935 , 2024 May , V13 (10) doi: 10.3390/plants13101373
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of Bx Involved in Benzoxazinoids Biosynthesis Revealed the Roles of DIMBOA during Early Somatic Embryogenesis in Dimocarpus longan Lour.
Institute of Horticultural Biotechnology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
Benzoxazinoids (BXs) are tryptophan-derived indole metabolites and play a role in various physiological processes, such as auxin metabolism. Auxin is essential in the process of somatic embryogenesis (SE) in plants. In this study, we used bioinformatics, transcriptome data, exogenous treatment experiments, and qPCR analysis to study the evolutionary pattern of Bx genes in green plants, the regulatory mechanism of DlBx genes during early SE, and the effect of 2,4-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazine-3-one (DIMBOA) on the early SE in Dimocarpus longan Lour. The results showed that 27 putative DlBxs were identified in the longan genome; the Bx genes evolved independently in monocots and dicots, and the main way of gene duplication for the DlBx was tandem duplication (TD) and the DlBx were strongly constrained by purification selection during evolution. The transcriptome data indicated varying expression levels of DlBx during longan early SE, and most DlBxs responded to light, temperature, drought stress, and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) treatment; qRT-PCR results showed DlBx1, DlBx6g and DlBx6h were responsive to auxin, and treatment with 0.1mg/L DIMBOA for 9 days significantly upregulated the expression levels of DlBx1, DlBx3g, DlBx6c, DlBx6f, DlB6h, DlBx7d, DlBx8, and DlBx9b. The correlation analysis showed a significantly negative correlation between the expression level of DlBx1 and the endogenous IAA contents; DIMBOA significantly promoted the early SE and significantly changed the endogenous IAA content, and the IAA content increased significantly at the 9th day and decreased significantly at the 13th day. Therefore, the results suggested that DIMBOA indirectly promote the early SE by changing the endogenous IAA content via affecting the expression level of DlBx1 and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) content in longan.
PMID: 38794443
Plants (Basel) , IF:3.935 , 2024 May , V13 (10) doi: 10.3390/plants13101286
Genome-Wide Analysis of the SAUR Gene Family and Its Expression Profiles in Response to Salt Stress in Santalum album.
Key Laboratory of Genetics and Germplasm Innovation of Tropical Special Forest Trees and Ornamental Plants (Ministry of Education), Hainan Key Laboratory for Biology of Tropical Ornamental Plant Germplasm, Collaborative Innovation Center of Ecological Civilization, School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.; College of Advanced Agriculture Sciences, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China.
The SAUR (small auxin-up RNA) family constitutes a category of genes that promptly respond to the hormone auxin and play a pivotal role in diverse biological processes encompassing plant growth and the response to abiotic stress. Santalum album L., a semi-parasitic evergreen tree, is renowned for its economically valuable essential oils, positioning it among the most prized tree species. In this study, a meticulous identification and comprehensive analysis of 43 SAUR genes was conducted within S. album. Based on phylogenetic relationships, the SaSAUR genes were systematically categorized into five groups. A collinearity analysis revealed intriguing insights, disclosing 14 segmental duplications and 9 tandem duplications within the SaSAUR genes, emphasizing the pivotal role of duplication in the expansion of this gene family. Noteworthy variations in the expression levels of SaSAUR genes were observed by delving into the SaSAUR transcriptome data from various tissues, including leaves, roots, and heartwood, as well as under salt-stress conditions. Notably, SaSAUR08 and SaSAUR13 were significantly upregulated in heartwood compared with roots and leaves, while SaSAUR18 was markedly more expressed in roots compared with heartwood and leaves. Furthermore, SaSAUR27 and SaSAUR28 were found to respond closely to salt stress, hinting at their potential involvement in the salt-stress response mechanism. This research offers a comprehensive investigation of SAUR genes in S. album and establishes a foundation for future exploration of the SAUR gene family, particularly its relation to growth and salt-stress responses.
PMID: 38794357
Gene , IF:3.688 , 2024 May , V921 : P148532 doi: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148532
Identification of cotton PIP5K genes and role of GhPIP5K9a in primary root development.
National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Anyang 455000, China; Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, China.; Anyang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China.; National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Anyang 455000, China.; National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572024, China; National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Anyang 455000, China.; National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572024, China; National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Anyang 455000, China; Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, China. Electronic address: fsl427@126.com.; National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Anyang 455000, China; Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, China. Electronic address: 13837240176@163.com.
Phosphatidylinositol 4 phosphate 5-kinase (PIP5K) is crucial for the phosphatidylinositol (PI) signaling pathway. It plays a significant role in plant growth and development, as well as stress response. However, its effects on cotton are unknown. This study identified PIP5K genes from four cotton species and conducted bioinformatic analyses, with a particular emphasis on the functions of GhPIP5K9a in primary roots. The results showed that cotton PIP5Ks were classified into four subgroups. Analysis of gene structure and motif composition showed obvious conservation within each subgroup. Synteny analysis suggested that the PIP5K gene family experienced significant expansion due to both whole-genome duplication (WGD) and segmental duplication. Transcriptomic data analysis revealed that the majority of GhPIP5K genes had the either low or undetectable levels of expression. Moreover, GhPIP5K9a is highly expressed in the root and was located in plasmalemma. Suppression of GhPIP5K9a transcripts resulted in longer primary roots, longer primary root cells and increased auxin polar transport-related genes expression, and decreased abscisic acid (ABA) content, indicating that GhPIP5K9a negatively regulates cotton primary root growth. This study lays the foundation for further exploration of the role of the PIP5K genes in cotton.
PMID: 38705423
Gene , IF:3.688 , 2024 Jul , V915 : P148423 doi: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148423
The vesicle trafficking gene, OsRab7, is critical for pollen development and male fertility in cytoplasmic male-sterility rice.
Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Gene Engineering of Jiangxi Province, College of Life Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China.; Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, United States.; Rice Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China. Electronic address: liuwei@gdaas.cn.; Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Gene Engineering of Jiangxi Province, College of Life Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China. Electronic address: xiaojuepeng@ncu.edu.cn.
Rice cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) provides an exceptional model for studying genetic interaction within plant nuclei given its inheritable trait of non-functional male gametophyte. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the genes and pathways associated with the CMS mechanism is imperative for improving the vigor of hybrid rice agronomically, such as its productivity. Here, we observed a significant decrease in the expression of a gene named OsRab7 in the anther of the CMS line (SJA) compared to the maintainer line (SJB). OsRab7 is responsible for vesicle trafficking and loss function of OsRab7 significantly reduced pollen fertility and setting rate relative to the wild type. Meanwhile, over-expression of OsRab7 enhanced pollen fertility in the SJA line while a decrease in its expression in the SJB line led to the reduced pollen fertility. Premature tapetum and abnormal development of microspores were observed in the rab7 mutant. The expression of critical genes involved in tapetum development (OsMYB103, OsPTC1, OsEAT1 and OsAP25) and pollen development (OsMSP1, OsDTM1 and OsC4) decreased significantly in the anther of rab7 mutant. Reduced activities of the pDR5::GUS marker in the young panicle and anther of the rab7 mutant were also observed. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of genes involved in auxin biosynthesis (YUCCAs), auxin transport (PINs), auxin response factors (ARFs), and members of the IAA family (IAAs) were all downregulated in the rab7 mutant, indicating its impact on auxin signaling and distribution. In summary, these findings underscore the importance of OsRab7 in rice pollen development and its potential link to cytoplasmic male sterility.
PMID: 38575100
Gene , IF:3.688 , 2024 Jun , V910 : P148336 doi: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148336
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the Dof gene family reveals their involvement in hormone response and abiotic stresses in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.).
Department of Life Sciences, Changzhi University, Changzhi 046011, China.; School of Life Science, Shanxi Normal University, Taiyuan 030031, China.; Department of Life Sciences, Changzhi University, Changzhi 046011, China. Electronic address: tznius@126.com.; Department of Life Sciences, Changzhi University, Changzhi 046011, China. Electronic address: akeliu@126.com.
DNA binding with one finger (Dof), plant-specific zinc finger transcription factors, can participate in various physiological and biochemical processes during the life of plants. As one of the most important oil crops in the world, sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) has significant economic and ornamental value. However, a systematic analysis of H. annuus Dof (HaDof) members and their functions has not been extensively conducted. In this study, we identified 50 HaDof genes that are unevenly distributed on 17 chromosomes of sunflower. We present a comprehensive overview of the HaDof genes, including their chromosome locations, phylogenetic analysis, and expression profile characterization. Phylogenetic analysis classified the 366 Dof members identified from 11 species into four groups (further subdivided into nine subfamilies). Segmental duplications are predominantly contributed to the expansion of sunflower Dof genes, and all segmental duplicate gene pairs are under purifying selection due to strong evolutionary constraints. Furthermore, we observed differential expression patterns for HaDof genes in normal tissues as well as under hormone treatment or abiotic stress conditions by analyzing RNA-seq data from previous studies and RT-qPCR data in our current study. The expression of HaDof04 and HaDof43 were not detected in any samples, which implied that they may be gradually undergoing pseudogenization process. Some HaDof genes, such as HaDof25 and HaDof30, showed responsiveness to exogenous plant hormones, such as kinetin, brassinosteroid, auxin or strigolactone, while others like HaDof15 and HaDof35 may participate in abiotic stress resistance of sunflower seedling. Our study represents the initial step towards understanding the phylogeny and expression characterization of sunflower Dof family genes, which may provide valuable reference information for functional studies on hormone response, abiotic stress resistance, and molecular breeding in sunflower and other species.
PMID: 38447680
Biochem Biophys Res Commun , IF:3.575 , 2024 Jun , V714 : P149956 doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149956
Function analysis of transcription factor OSR1 regulating osmotic stress resistance in maize.
State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Adaptation and Improvement, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, Henan, PR China; School of Physical Education and Health Management, Henan Finance University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, PR China.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Adaptation and Improvement, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, Henan, PR China.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Adaptation and Improvement, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, Henan, PR China. Electronic address: wangpt@henu.edu.cn.
BACKGROUND: Maize is a major cereal crop world widely, however, the yield of maize is frequently limited by dehydration and even death of plants, which resulted from osmotic stress such as drought and salinity. Dissection of molecular mechanisms controlling stress tolerance will enable plant scientists and breeders to increase crops yield by manipulating key regulatory components. METHODS: The candidate OSR1 gene was identified by map-based cloning. The expression level of OSR1 was verified by qRT-PCR and digital PCR in WT and osr1 mutant. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay, transactivation activity assay, subcellular localization, transcriptome analysis and physiological characters measurements were conducted to analyze the function of OSR1 in osmotic stress resistance in maize. RESULTS: The osr1 mutant was significantly less sensitive to osmotic stress than the WT plants and displayed stronger water-holding capacity, and the OSR1 homologous mutant in Arabidopsis showed a phenotype similar with maize osr1 mutant. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between WT and osr1 under osmotic stress by transcriptome analysis, the expression levels of many genes, such as LEA, auxin-related factors, PPR family members, and TPR family members, changed notably, which may primarily involve in osmotic stress or promote root development. CONCLUSIONS: OSR1 may serve as a negative regulatory factor in response to osmotic stress in maize. The present study sheds new light on the molecular mechanisms of osmotic stress in maize.
PMID: 38663095
Biochem Biophys Res Commun , IF:3.575 , 2024 Jun , V711 : P149934 doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149934
CEPs suppress auxin signaling but promote cytokinin signaling to inhibit root growth in Arabidopsis.
Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China. Electronic address: 2018203051@njau.edu.cn.; Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.; Zhongshan Biological Breeding Laboratory, Nanjing, 210014, China; Excellence and Innovation Center, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China.
C-terminally encoded peptides (CEPs) are peptide hormones that function as mobile signals coordinating crucial developmental programs in plants. Previous studies have revealed that CEPs exert negative regulation on root development through interaction with CEP receptors (CEPRs), CEP DOWNSTREAMs (CEPDs), the cytokinin receptor ARABIDOPSIS HISTIDINE KINASE (AHKs) and the transcriptional repressor Auxin/Indole-3-Acetic Acid (AUX/IAA). However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying CEPs-mediated regulation of root development via auxin and cytokinin signaling pathways still necessitate further detailed investigation. In this study, we examined prior research and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanisms. The results showed that both synthetic AtCEPs and overexpression of AtCEP5 markedly supressed primary root elongation and lateral root (LR) formation in Arabidopsis. Molecular biology and genetics elucidated how CEPs inhibit root growth by suppressing auxin signaling while promoting cytokinin signaling. In summary, this study elucidated the inhibitory effects of AtCEPs on Arabidopsis root growth and provided insights into their potential molecular mechanisms, thus enhancing our comprehension of CEP-mediated regulation of plant growth and development.
PMID: 38626621
J Plant Physiol , IF:3.549 , 2024 Jun , V297 : P154259 doi: 10.1016/j.jplph.2024.154259
Sucrose supplements modulate the Pseudomonas chlororaphis-Arabidopsis thaliana interaction via decreasing the production of phenazines and enhancing the root auxin response.
Instituto de Investigaciones Quimico-Biologicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, Edificio B3, Ciudad Universitaria, C.P. 58030, Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico.; Red de Estudios Moleculares Avanzados, Cluster BioMimic(R), Instituto de Ecologia, Carretera Antigua a Coatepec 351, El Haya, A.C 91073 Veracruz, Mexico.; Catedratico (IXM) CONAHCYT-Instituto de Investigaciones Quimico-Biologicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, Edificio B3, Ciudad Universitaria, C.P. 58030, Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico. Electronic address: jlopezb@conahcyt.mx.
Management of the plant microbiome may help support food needs for the human population. Bacteria influence plants through enhancing nutrient uptake, metabolism, photosynthesis, biomass production and/or reinforcing immunity. However, information into how these microbes behave under different growth conditions is missing. In this work, we tested how carbon supplements modulate the interaction of Pseudomonas chlororaphis with Arabidopsis thaliana. P. chlororaphis streaks strongly repressed primary root growth, lateral root formation and ultimately, biomass production. Noteworthy, increasing sucrose availability into the media from 0 to 2.4% restored plant growth and promoted lateral root formation in bacterized seedlings. This effect could not be observed by supplementing sucrose to leaves only, indicating that the interaction was strongly modulated by bacterial access to sugar. Total phenazine content decreased in the bacteria grown in high (2.4%) sucrose medium, and conversely, the expression of phzH and pslA genes were diminished by sugar supply. Pyocyanin antagonized the promoting effects of sucrose in lateral root formation and biomass production in inoculated seedlings, indicating that this virulence factor accounts for growth repression during the plant-bacterial interaction. Defence reporter transgenes PR-1::GUS and LOX2::GUS were induced in leaves, while the expression of the auxin-inducible, synthetic reporter gene DR5::GUS was enhanced in the roots of bacterized seedlings at low and high sucrose treatments, which suggests that growth/defence trade-offs in plants are critically modulated by P. chlororaphis. Collectively, our data suggest that bacterial carbon nutrition controls the outcome of the relation with plants.
PMID: 38705079
J Plant Physiol , IF:3.549 , 2024 Jun , V297 : P154257 doi: 10.1016/j.jplph.2024.154257
Physiological and molecular mechanisms of plant-root responses to iron toxicity.
State Key Laboratory of Nutrient Use and Management, Institute of Agricultural Resources and Environment, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China. Electronic address: ligjsaas@163.com.; State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19(A) Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, China.; School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia. Electronic address: herbert.kronzucker@unimelb.edu.au.; MOE Key Laboratory of Environment Remediation and Ecological Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. Electronic address: bhli@zju.edu.cn.; State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China; International Research Centre for Environmental Membrane Biology, Foshan University, Foshan, 528000, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19(A) Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, China. Electronic address: wmshi@issas.ac.cn.
The chemical form and physiological activity of iron (Fe) in soil are dependent on soil pH and redox potential (Eh), and Fe levels in soils are frequently elevated to the point of causing Fe toxicity in plants, with inhibition of normal physiological activities and of growth and development. In this review, we describe how iron toxicity triggers important physiological changes, including nitric-oxide (NO)-mediated potassium (K(+)) efflux at the tips of roots and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen (RNS) in roots, resulting in physiological stress. We focus on the root system, as the first point of contact with Fe in soil, and describe the key processes engaged in Fe transport, distribution, binding, and other mechanisms that are drawn upon to defend against high-Fe stress. We describe the root-system regulation of key physiological processes and of morphological development through signaling substances such as ethylene, auxin, reactive oxygen species, and nitric oxide, and discuss gene-expression responses under high Fe. We especially focus on studies on the physiological and molecular mechanisms in rice and Arabidopsis under high Fe, hoping to provide a valuable theoretical basis for improving the ability of crop roots to adapt to soil Fe toxicity.
PMID: 38688043
J Plant Physiol , IF:3.549 , 2024 Jun , V297 : P154242 doi: 10.1016/j.jplph.2024.154242
AtHD2D is involved in regulating lateral root development and participates in abiotic stress response in Arabidopsis.
College of Life Science, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shanxi, 712100, China.; London Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-food Canada, London, Ontario, N5V 4T3, Canada.; College of Life Science, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shanxi, 712100, China. Electronic address: hanzhaofen@nwsuaf.edu.cn.
Roots are essential to terrestrial plants, as their growth and morphology are crucial for plant development. The growth of the roots is affected and regulated by several internal and external environmental signals and metabolic pathways. Among them, chromatin modification plays an important regulatory role. In this study, we explore the potential roles of the histone deacetylase AtHD2D in root development and lay the foundation for further research on the biological processes and molecular mechanisms of AtHD2D in the future. Our study indicates that AtHD2D affects the root tip microenvironment homeostasis by affecting the gene transcription levels required to maintain the root tip microenvironment. In addition, we confirmed that AtHD2D is involved in regulating Arabidopsis lateral root development and further explained the possible role of AtHD2D in auxin-mediated lateral root development. AtHD2D can effectively enhance the resistance of Arabidopsis thaliana to abiotic stress. We believe that AtHD2D is involved in coping with abiotic stress by promoting the development of lateral roots. Overexpression of AtHD2D promotes the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in roots, indicating that AtHD2D is also involved in developing lateral roots mediated by ROS. Previous studies have shown that the overexpression of AtHD2D can effectively enhance the resistance of Arabidopsis thaliana to abiotic stress. Based on our data, we believe that AtHD2D participates in the response to abiotic stress by promoting the development of lateral roots. AtHD2D-mediated lateral root development provides new ideas for studying the mechanism of HDAC protein in regulating root development.
PMID: 38614048
Protoplasma , IF:3.356 , 2024 May , V261 (3) : P571-579 doi: 10.1007/s00709-023-01923-w
Gibberellin-mediated far-red light-induced leaf expansion in cucumber seedlings.
College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, People's Republic of China.; College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, People's Republic of China. zhong591@fafu.edu.cn.
Our experiments explored the effects of far-red (FR) light on cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. 'Zhongnong No. 26') seedling growth. Our results indicated that FR light significantly promoted the growth of cucumber seedlings. Specifically, it promoted the accumulation of shoot biomass and the elongation of internodes and leaves (except the first leaf at the bottom). Further analysis showed that FR light had no effect on the accumulation contents of abscisic acid (ABA) and auxin (IAA) in seedling leaves. Still, it significantly caused the increase of the gibberellin (GA3, GA4, and GA7) contents and the decrease of GA1 content, which suggested that the leaf expansion progress under FR light may be primarily related to GA. Therefore, the cucumber seedling leaf expansion response to GA was evaluated under different light sources. The exogenous spraying of different GA4/7 contents significantly promoted the leaf expansion of cucumber seedlings under white light, while the GA biosynthesis inhibitor paclobutrazol (PAC) significantly promoted the expression of GA hydrolytic genes (GA2ox2 and GA2ox4) and decreased the content of endogenous active GA, which inhibited the leaf expansion induced by FR light. As expected, the combination of exogenous GA4/7 and PAC restored the growth promotion effect of FR light on cucumber seedling leaves. It increased the contents of endogenous active GA (GA1, GA3, GA4, and GA7), and the expression trend in GA synthetic/hydrolytic-related genes was the opposite of that of PAC was applied alone. All of the above results indicated that FR light regulates leaf expansion progress in cucumber seedlings through GA.
PMID: 38170395
PLoS One , IF:3.24 , 2024 , V19 (5) : Pe0303992 doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303992
Analytical methods for stable isotope labeling to elucidate rapid auxin kinetics in Arabidopsis thaliana.
Department of Horticultural Science and Microbial and Plant Genomics Institute, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States of America.
The phytohormone auxin plays a critical role in plant growth and development. Despite significant progress in elucidating metabolic pathways of the primary bioactive auxin, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), over the past few decades, key components such as intermediates and enzymes have not been fully characterized, and the dynamic regulation of IAA metabolism in response to environmental signals has not been completely revealed. In this study, we established a protocol employing a highly sensitive liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) instrumentation and a rapid stable isotope labeling approach. We treated Arabidopsis seedlings with two stable isotope labeled precursors ([13C6]anthranilate and [13C8, 15N1]indole) and monitored the label incorporation into proposed indolic compounds involved in IAA biosynthetic pathways. This Stable Isotope Labeled Kinetics (SILK) method allowed us to trace the turnover rates of IAA pathway precursors and product concurrently with a time scale of seconds to minutes. By measuring the entire pathways over time and using different isotopic tracer techniques, we demonstrated that these methods offer more detailed information about this complex interacting network of IAA biosynthesis, and should prove to be useful for studying auxin metabolic network in vivo in a variety of plant tissues and under different environmental conditions.
PMID: 38776314
Int J Phytoremediation , IF:3.212 , 2024 Jun , V26 (8) : P1221-1230 doi: 10.1080/15226514.2024.2304562
Changes in microRNAs expression of flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) planted in a cadmium-contaminated soil following the inoculation with root symbiotic fungi.
Department of Soil Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran.; Department of Plant Productions and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran.
Cadmium is one of the most harmful heavy metals that harm agricultural products. Evaluating microRNAs expression is a new and accurate method to study plant response in various environmental conditions. So this study aimed to evaluate the contribution of two symbiotic fungi in improving flax tolerance in a Cd-polluted soil using microRNAs and their target gene expression. A factorial pot experiment in a completely randomized design was conducted with different levels of Cd (0, 20, and 40 mg kg(-1)) on non-inoculated and inoculated flax with Claroideoglomus etunicatum and Serendipita indica. The results presented that increasing Cd levels caused a constant decline of alkaline phosphatase of soil (from 243 to 210 and 153 mug PNP g(-1) h(-1)), respectively, from control (Cd0) to 20 and 40 mg Cd kg(-1). However, the inoculation of flax with fungi significantly enhanced these properties. A negative correlation was observed between the expression level of microRNA 167 and microRNA 398 with their corresponding target genes, auxin response factor 8 and superoxide dismutase zinc/copper 1, respectively. The expression level of both microRNAs and their targets indicated that the inoculation with symbiont fungi could diminish Cd stress and enhance the growth of flax.
PMID: 38279665
J Microencapsul , IF:3.142 , 2024 May , V41 (3) : P170-189 doi: 10.1080/02652048.2024.2324812
Microbeads as carriers for Bacillus pumilus: a biofertilizer focus on auxin production.
Departamento de Suelos y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Agronomia, Universidad de Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile.; Escuela de Ingenieria Ambiental, Instituto de Acuicultura, Universidad Austral de Chile, Sede Puerto Montt, Puerto Montt, Chile.; Laboratory of Biofilms and Environmental Microbiology, Center of Biotechnology, University of Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile.
The study aimed to develop a solid biofertilizer using Bacillus pumilus, focusing on auxin production to enhance plant drought tolerance. Methods involved immobilising B. pumilus in alginate-starch beads, focusing on microbial concentration, biopolymer types, and environmental conditions. The optimal formulation showed a diameter of 3.58 mm +/- 0.18, a uniform size distribution after 15 h of drying at 30 degrees C, a stable bacterial concentration (1.99 x 10(9) CFU g(-1) +/- 1.03 x 10(9) over 180 days at room temperature), a high auxin production (748.8 microg g(-1) +/- 10.3 of IAA in 7 days), and a water retention capacity of 37% +/- 4.07. In conclusion, this new formulation of alginate + starch + L-tryptophan + B. pumilus has the potential for use in crops due to its compelling water retention, high viability in storage at room temperature, and high auxin production, which provides commercial advantages.
PMID: 38469757
Funct Plant Biol , IF:3.101 , 2024 May , V51 doi: 10.1071/FP23320
Identification of cysteine-rich receptor-like kinase gene family in potato: revealed StCRLK9 in response to heat, salt and drought stresses.
School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.; Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia.; Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia.; Department of Biotechnology, University of Narowal, Narowal, Pakistan.
The investigation into cysteine-rich receptor-like kinases (CRLKs) holds pivotal significance as these conserved, upstream signalling molecules intricately regulate fundamental biological processes such as plant growth, development and stress adaptation. This study undertakes a comprehensive characterisation of CRLKs in Solanum tuberosum (potato), a staple food crop of immense economic importance. Employing comparative genomics and evolutionary analyses, we identified 10 distinct CRLK genes in potato. Further categorisation into three major groups based on sequence similarity was performed. Each CRLK member in potato was systematically named according to its chromosomal position. Multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analyses unveiled conserved gene structures and motifs within the same groups. The genomic distribution of CRLKs was observed across Chromosomes 2-5, 8 and 12. Gene duplication analysis highlighted a noteworthy trend, with most gene pairs exhibiting a Ka/Ks ratio greater than one, indicating positive selection of StCRLKs in potato. Salt and drought stresses significantly impacted peroxidase and catalase activities in potato seedlings. The presence of diverse cis -regulatory elements, including hormone-responsive elements, underscored their involvement in myriad biotic and abiotic stress responses. Interestingly, interactions between the phytohormone auxin and CRLK proteins unveiled a potential auxin-mediated regulatory mechanism. A holistic approach combining transcriptomics and quantitative PCR validation identified StCRLK9 as a potential candidate involved in plant response to heat, salt and drought stresses. This study lays a robust foundation for future research on the functional roles of the CRLK gene family in potatoes, offering valuable insights into their diverse regulatory mechanisms and potential applications in stress management.
PMID: 38723163
Plant Direct , IF:3.038 , 2024 May , V8 (5) : Pe587 doi: 10.1002/pld3.587
PINOID-centered genetic interactions mediate auxin action in cotyledon formation.
College of Life Science Xinyang Normal University Xinyang China.
Auxin plays a key role in plant growth and development through auxin local synthesis, polar transport, and auxin signaling. Many previous reports on Arabidopsis have found that various types of auxin-related genes are involved in the development of the cotyledon, including the number, symmetry, and morphology of the cotyledon. However, the molecular mechanism by which auxin is involved in cotyledon formation remains to be elucidated. PID, which encodes a serine/threonine kinase localized to the plasma membrane, has been found to phosphorylate the PIN1 protein and regulate its polar distribution in the cell. The loss of function of pid resulted in an abnormal number of cotyledons and defects in inflorescence. It was interesting that the pid mutant interacted synergistically with various types of mutant to generate the severe developmental defect without cotyledon. PID and these genes were indicated to be strongly correlated with cotyledon formation. In this review, PID-centered genetic interactions, related gene functions, and corresponding possible pathways are discussed, providing a perspective that PID and its co-regulators control cotyledon formation through multiple pathways.
PMID: 38766507
PeerJ , IF:2.984 , 2024 , V12 : Pe17337 doi: 10.7717/peerj.17337
Identification of YUC genes associated with leaf wrinkling trait in Tacai variety of Chinese cabbage.
College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.; College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Wenzhou Vocational College of Science and Technology (Wenzhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences), Wenzhou, China.; Jiaxing Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jiaxing, China.
Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris L. ssp. chinensis (L.) Makino) stands as a widely cultivated leafy vegetable in China, with its leaf morphology significantly influencing both quality and yield. Despite its agricultural importance, the precise mechanisms governing leaf wrinkling development remain elusive. This investigation focuses on 'Wutacai', a representative cultivar of the Tacai variety (Brassica campestris L. ssp. chinensis var. rosularis Tsen et Lee), renowned for its distinct leaf wrinkling characteristics. Within the genome of 'Wutacai', we identified a total of 18 YUCs, designated as BraWTC_YUCs, revealing their conservation within the Brassica genus, and their close homology to YUCs in Arabidopsis. Expression profiling unveiled that BraWTC_YUCs in Chinese Cabbage exhibited organ-specific and leaf position-dependent variation. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing data from the flat leaf cultivar 'Suzhouqing' and the wrinkled leaf cultivar 'Wutacai' revealed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to auxin during the early phases of leaf development, particularly the YUC gene. In summary, this study successfully identified the YUC gene family in 'Wutacai' and elucidated its potential function in leaf wrinkling trait, to provide valuable insights into the prospective molecular mechanisms that regulate leaf wrinkling in Chinese cabbage.
PMID: 38784401
PeerJ , IF:2.984 , 2024 , V12 : Pe17371 doi: 10.7717/peerj.17371
Genome-wide analysis of bZIP transcription factors and their expression patterns in response to methyl jasmonate and low-temperature stresses in Platycodon grandiflorus.
College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China.; Institute of Health and Medicine, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Joint Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine of Anhui, Bozhou, Anhui, China.; College of Pharmacy, Bozhou Vocational and Technical College, Bozhou, Anhui, China.; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Resources Protection and Development, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China.; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China.
BACKGROUND: Platycodon grandiflorus belongs to the genus Platycodon and has many pharmacological effects, such as expectorant, antitussive, and anti-tumor properties. Among transcription factor families peculiar to eukaryotes, the basic leucine zipper (bZIP) family is one of the most important, which exists widely in plants and participates in many biological processes, such as plant growth, development, and stress responses. However, genomic analysis of the bZIP gene family and related stress response genes has not yet been reported in P. grandiflorus. METHODS: P. grandiflorus bZIP (PgbZIP) genes were first identified here, and the phylogenetic relationships and conserved motifs in the PgbZIPs were also performed. Meanwhile, gene structures, conserved domains, and the possible protein subcellular localizations of these PgbZIPs were characterized. Most importantly, the cis-regulatory elements and expression patterns of selected genes exposed to two different stresses were analyzed to provide further information on PgbZIPs potential biological roles in P. grandiflorus upon exposure to environmental stresses. CONCLUSIONS: Forty-six PgbZIPs were identified in P. grandiflorus and divided into nine groups, as displayed in the phylogenetic tree. The results of the chromosomal location and the collinearity analysis showed that forty-six PgbZIP genes were distributed on eight chromosomes, with one tandem duplication event and eleven segmental duplication events identified. Most PgbZIPs in the same phylogenetic group have similar conserved motifs, domains, and gene structures. There are cis-regulatory elements related to the methyl jasmonate (MeJA) response, low-temperature response, abscisic acid response, auxin response, and gibberellin response. Ten PgbZIP genes were selected to study their expression patterns upon exposure to low-temperature and MeJA treatments, and all ten genes responded to these stresses. The real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) results suggest that the expression levels of most PgbZIPs decreased significantly within 6 h and then gradually increased to normal or above normal levels over the 90 h following MeJA treatment. The expression levels of all PgbZIPs were significantly reduced after 3 h of the low-temperature treatment. These results reveal the characteristics of the PgbZIP family genes and provide valuable information for improving P. grandiflorus's ability to cope with environmental stresses during growth and development.
PMID: 38708338
Nat Prod Res , IF:2.861 , 2024 May : P1-8 doi: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2349807
Establishment of callus cultures and quantification of Caffeic acid using HPTLC from Desmodium gangeticum (L.).
Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India.
Desmodium gangeticum (L.) belonging to family Fabaceae is an economically important medicinal plant which isutilised in Dashmoolarishta. Various bioactive compounds have been isolated from whole plant and roots, and one of them is an important phenolic compound - caffeic acid (CA). This phenolic acid and its derivatives have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic and hepatocarcinoma, a highly aggressive and causing considerable mortality across the world. In the present study, leaf explants were placed on MS medium fortified with different concentration of cytokinin (BA/Kn) and auxin (IAA/NAA) for establishing callus cultures. MS medium fortified with BA (20 microM) and IAA (2 microM) was optimised for the same. Methanolic extracts of in vivo leaf sample (DG1) and in vitro sample (leaf derived callus) (DG2) were assessed for CA quantification using HPTLC. Thus, the chemical fingerprint that was obtained, confirmed that DG 2 of D. gangeticum exhibited the potency to synthesise more amount of CA (316 +/- 7.5 microg/g DW) in comparison to DG1 which was 194 +/- 2.3 microg/g DW.
PMID: 38708490
Mol Biol Rep , IF:2.316 , 2024 May , V51 (1) : P648 doi: 10.1007/s11033-024-09608-0
Transcriptome-wide identification of ARF gene family in medicinal plant Polygonatum kingianum and expression analysis of PkARF members in different tissues.
School of Pharmacy, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, 404120, China.; Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, 404120, China.; School of Pharmacy, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, 404120, China. chenchunyu@cqtgmc.edu.cn.; School of Pharmacy, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, 404120, China. lining@cqtgmc.edu.cn.
BACKGROUND: Polygonatum kingianum holds significant importance in Traditional Chinese Medicine due to its medicinal properties, characterized by its diverse chemical constituents including polysaccharides, terpenoids, flavonoids, phenols, and phenylpropanoids. The Auxin Response Factor (ARF) is a pivotal transcription factor known for its regulatory role in both primary and secondary metabolite synthesis. However, our understanding of the ARF gene family in P. kingianum remains limited. METHODS AND RESULTS: We employed RNA-Seq to sequence three distinct tissues (leaf, root, and stem) of P. kingianum. The analysis revealed a total of 31,558 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with 43 species of transcription factors annotated among them. Analyses via gene ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes demonstrated that these DEGs were predominantly enriched in metabolic pathways and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. The proposed temporal expression analysis categorized the DEGs into nine clusters, suggesting the same expression trends that may be coordinated in multiple biological processes across the three tissues. Additionally, we conducted screening and expression pattern analysis of the ARF gene family, identifying 12 significantly expressed PkARF genes in P. kingianum roots. This discovery lays the groundwork for investigations into the role of PkARF genes in root growth, development, and secondary metabolism regulation. CONCLUSION: The obtained data and insights serve as a focal point for further research studies, centred on genetic manipulation of growth and secondary metabolism in P. kingianum. Furthermore, these findings contribute to the understanding of functional genomics in P. kingianum, offering valuable genetic resources.
PMID: 38727802
Mol Biol Rep , IF:2.316 , 2024 May , V51 (1) : P605 doi: 10.1007/s11033-024-09574-7
Transcriptome analysis of apical meristem enriched bud samples for size dependent flowering commitment in Crocus sativus reveal role of sugar and auxin signalling.
CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, 176061, India.; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.; CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, 176061, India. kunal@ihbt.res.in.; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India. kunal@ihbt.res.in.
BACKGROUND: Cultivation of Crocus sativus (saffron) faces challenges due to inconsistent flowering patterns and variations in yield. Flowering takes place in a graded way with smaller corms unable to produce flowers. Enhancing the productivity requires a comprehensive understanding of the underlying genetic mechanisms that govern this size-based flowering initiation and commitment. Therefore, samples enriched with non-flowering and flowering apical buds from small (< 6 g) and large (> 14 g) corms were sequenced. METHODS AND RESULTS: Apical bud enriched samples from small and large corms were collected immediately after dormancy break in July. RNA sequencing was performed using Illumina Novaseq 6000 to access the gene expression profiles associated with size dependent flowering. De novo transcriptome assembly and analysis using flowering committed buds from large corms at post-dormancy and their comparison with vegetative shoot primordia from small corms pointed out the major role of starch and sucrose metabolism, Auxin and ABA hormonal regulation. Many genes with known dual responses in flowering development and circadian rhythm like Flowering locus T and Cryptochrome 1 along with a transcript showing homology with small auxin upregulated RNA (SAUR) exhibited induced expression in flowering buds. Thorough prediction of Crocus sativus non-coding RNA repertoire has been carried out for the first time. Enolase was found to be acting as a major hub with protein-protein interaction analysis using Arabidopsis counterparts. CONCLUSION: Transcripts belong to key pathways including phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, hormone signaling and carbon metabolism were found significantly modulated. KEGG assessment and protein-protein interaction analysis confirm the expression data. Findings unravel the genetic determinants driving the size dependent flowering in Crocus sativus.
PMID: 38700570
Plant Signal Behav , IF:2.247 , 2024 Dec , V19 (1) : P2348917 doi: 10.1080/15592324.2024.2348917
Investigation of Arabidopsis root skototropism with different distance settings.
Institute of Cellular and Molecular Botany, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
Plants can activate protective and defense mechanisms under biotic and abiotic stresses. Their roots naturally grow in the soil, but when they encounter sunlight in the top-soil layers, they may move away from the light source to seek darkness. Here we investigate the skototropic behavior of roots, which promotes their fitness and survival. Glutamate-like receptors (GLRs) of plants play roles in sensing and responding to signals, but their role in root skototropism is not yet understood. Light-induced tropisms are known to be affected by auxin distribution, mainly determined by auxin efflux proteins (PIN proteins) at the root tip. However, the role of PIN proteins in root skototropism has not been investigated yet. To better understand root skototropism and its connection to the distance between roots and light, we established five distance settings between seedlings and darkness to investigate the variations in root bending tendencies. We compared differences in root skototropic behavior across different expression lines of Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings (atglr3.7 ko, AtGLR3.7 OE, and pin2 knockout) to comprehend their functions. Our research shows that as the distance between roots and darkness increases, the root's positive skototropism noticeably weakens. Our findings highlight the involvement of GLR3.7 and PIN2 in root skototropism.
PMID: 38704856
Plant Signal Behav , IF:2.247 , 2024 Dec , V19 (1) : P2341506 doi: 10.1080/15592324.2024.2341506
Complex genetic interaction between glucose sensor HXK1 and E3 SUMO ligase SIZ1 in regulating plant morphogenesis.
National Institute of Plant Genome Research, New Delhi, India.
Sugar signaling forms the basis of metabolic activities crucial for an organism to perform essential life activities. In plants, sugars like glucose, mediate a wide range of physiological responses ranging from seed germination to cell senescence. This has led to the elucidation of cell signaling pathways involving glucose and its counterparts and the mechanism of how these sugars take control over major hormonal pathways such as auxin, ethylene, abscisic acid and cytokinin in Arabidopsis. Plants use HXK1(Hexokinase) as a glucose sensor to modulate changes in photosynthetic gene expression in response to high glucose levels. Other proteins such as SIZ1, a major SUMO E3 ligase have recently been implicated in controlling sugar responses via transcriptional and translational regulation of a wide array of sugar metabolic genes. Here, we show that these two genes work antagonistically and are epistatic in controlling responsiveness toward high glucose conditions.
PMID: 38607960
Plant Signal Behav , IF:2.247 , 2024 Dec , V19 (1) : P2331358 doi: 10.1080/15592324.2024.2331358
Plant hormone profiling of scion and rootstock incision sites and intra- and inter-family graft junctions in Nicotiana benthamiana.
Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan.; RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Plant Productivity Systems Research Group, Yokohama, Japan.
Many previous studies have suggested that various plant hormones play essential roles in the grafting process. In this study, to understand the plant hormones that accumulate in the graft junctions, whether these are supplied from the scion or rootstock, and how these hormones play a role in the grafting process, we performed a hormonome analysis that accumulated in the incision site of the upper plants from the incision as "ungrafted scion" and lower plants from the incision as "ungrafted rootstock" in Nicotiana benthamiana. The results revealed that indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellic acid (GA), which regulate cell division; abscisic acid (ABA) and jasmonic acid (JA), which regulate xylem formation; cytokinin (CK), which regulates callus formation, show different accumulation patterns in the incision sites of the ungrafted scion and rootstock. In addition, to try discussing the differences in the degree and speed of each event during the grafting process between intra- and inter-family grafting by determining the concentration and accumulation timing of plant hormones in the graft junctions, we performed hormonome analysis of graft junctions of intra-family grafted plants with N. benthamiana as scion and Solanum lycopersicum as rootstock (Nb/Sl) and inter-family grafted plants with N. benthamiana as scion and Arabidopsis thaliana as rootstock (Nb/At), using the ability of Nicotiana species to graft with many plant species. The results revealed that ABA and CK showed different accumulation timings; IAA, JA, and salicylic acid (SA) showed similar accumulation timings, while different accumulated concentrations in the graft junctions of Nb/Sl and Nb/At. This information is important for understanding the molecular mechanisms of plant hormones in the grafting process and the differences in molecular mechanisms between intra- and inter-family grafting.
PMID: 38513064
Plant Signal Behav , IF:2.247 , 2024 Dec , V19 (1) : P2305030 doi: 10.1080/15592324.2024.2305030
Cytokinin signaling is involved in root hair elongation in response to phosphate starvation.
School of Biological Science and Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan.; Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Takayama, Ikoma, Nara, Japan.
Root hair, single-celled tubular structures originating from the epidermis, plays a vital role in the uptake of nutrients from the soil by increasing the root surface area. Therefore, optimizing root hair growth is crucial for plants to survive in fluctuating environments. Root hair length is determined by the action of various plant hormones, among which the roles of auxin and ethylene have been extensively studied. However, evidence for the involvement of cytokinins has remained elusive. We recently reported that the cytokinin-activated B-type response regulators, ARABIDOPSIS RESPONSE REGULATOR 1 (ARR1) and ARR12 directly upregulate the expression of ROOT HAIR DEFECTIVE 6-LIKE 4 (RSL4), which encodes a key transcription factor that controls root hair elongation. However, depending on the nutrient availability, it is unknown whether the ARR1/12-RSL4 pathway controls root hair elongation. This study shows that phosphate deficiency induced the expression of RSL4 and increased the root hair length through ARR1/12, though the transcript and protein levels of ARR1/12 did not change. These results indicate that cytokinins, together with other hormones, regulate root hair growth under phosphate starvation conditions.
PMID: 38267225
ISME Commun , 2024 Jan , V4 (1) : Pycae073 doi: 10.1093/ismeco/ycae073
Widespread horizontal gene transfer between plants and bacteria.
The Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Institute of Environmental Science, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food, and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel.; Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel.
Plants host a large array of commensal bacteria that interact with the host. The growth of both bacteria and plants is often dependent on nutrients derived from the cognate partners, and the bacteria fine-tune host immunity against pathogens. This ancient interaction is common in all studied land plants and is critical for proper plant health and development. We hypothesized that the spatial vicinity and the long-term relationships between plants and their microbiota may promote cross-kingdom horizontal gene transfer (HGT), a phenomenon that is relatively rare in nature. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed the Arabidopsis thaliana genome and its extensively sequenced microbiome to detect events of horizontal transfer of full-length genes that transferred between plants and bacteria. Interestingly, we detected 75 unique genes that were horizontally transferred between plants and bacteria. Plants and bacteria exchange in both directions genes that are enriched in carbohydrate metabolism functions, and bacteria transferred to plants genes that are enriched in auxin biosynthesis genes. Next, we provided a proof of concept for the functional similarity between a horizontally transferred bacterial gene and its Arabidopsis homologue in planta. The Arabidopsis DET2 gene is essential for biosynthesis of the brassinosteroid phytohormones, and loss of function of the gene leads to dwarfism. We found that expression of the DET2 homologue from Leifsonia bacteria of the Actinobacteria phylum in the Arabidopsis det2 background complements the mutant and leads to normal plant growth. Together, these data suggest that cross-kingdom HGT events shape the metabolic capabilities and interactions between plants and bacteria.
PMID: 38808121
Plant Commun , 2024 May : P100978 doi: 10.1016/j.xplc.2024.100978
Single-cell network analysis reveals gene expression programs for Arabidopsis root development and metabolism.
MOE Key Laboratory for Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China.; MOE Key Laboratory for Cellular Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China; School of Data Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China. Electronic address: sma@ustc.edu.cn.
Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) datasets of Arabidopsis roots have been generated, but related comprehensive gene co-expression network analyses are lacking. We conducted a single-cell gene co-expression network analysis with publicly available scRNA-seq datasets of Arabidopsis roots using a SingleCellGGM algorithm. The analysis identified 149 gene co-expression modules, which we considered gene expression programs (GEPs). By checking their spatiotemporal expression, we identified GEPs specifically expressed in major root cell types along their developmental trajectories. These GEPs defined gene programs regulating root cell development at different stages and are enriched with relevant developmental regulators. As examples, a GEP specific for quiescent center (QC) contains 20 genes regulating QC and stem cell niche homeostasis, and five GEPs are expressed in sieve elements (SEs) from early to late developmental stages, with the early-stage GEP containing 17 known SE developmental regulators. We also identified GEPs for metabolic pathways with cell type-specific expression, suggesting the existence of cell type-specific metabolism in roots. Using the GEPs, we discovered and verified a columella-specific gene, NRL27, as a regulator of auxin-related root gravitropism response. Our analysis thus systematically revealed GEPs regulating Arabidopsis root development and metabolism and provided candidate genes for root biology studies.
PMID: 38783601
Stress Biol , 2024 May , V4 (1) : P25 doi: 10.1007/s44154-024-00162-0
Physiological and molecular bases of the nickel toxicity responses in tomato.
College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, 030801, China.; Shanxi Key Laboratory of Germplasm Resources Innovation and Utilization of Vegetable and Flower, Taiyuan, 030031, China.; College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, 030801, China. xujin@sxau.edu.cn.; Shanxi Key Laboratory of Germplasm Resources Innovation and Utilization of Vegetable and Flower, Taiyuan, 030031, China. xujin@sxau.edu.cn.
Nickel (Ni), a component of urease, is a micronutrient essential for plant growth and development, but excess Ni is toxic to plants. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the important vegetables worldwide. Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides led to Ni contamination in agricultural soils, thus reducing yield and quality of tomatoes. However, the molecular regulatory mechanisms of Ni toxicity responses in tomato plants have largely not been elucidated. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the Ni toxicity response in tomato plants by physio-biochemical, transcriptomic and molecular regulatory network analyses. Ni toxicity repressed photosynthesis, induced the formation of brush-like lateral roots and interfered with micronutrient accumulation in tomato seedlings. Ni toxicity also induced reactive oxygen species accumulation and oxidative stress responses in plants. Furthermore, Ni toxicity reduced the phytohormone concentrations, including auxin, cytokinin and gibberellic acid, thereby retarding plant growth. Transcriptome analysis revealed that Ni toxicity altered the expression of genes involved in carbon/nitrogen metabolism pathways. Taken together, these results provide a theoretical basis for identifying key genes that could reduce excess Ni accumulation in tomato plants and are helpful for ensuring food safety and sustainable agricultural development.
PMID: 38722370
Plant Commun , 2024 May , V5 (5) : P100738 doi: 10.1016/j.xplc.2023.100738
Enhancing wheat regeneration and genetic transformation through overexpression of TaLAX1.
State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, China.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, China. Electronic address: zhangxs@sdau.edu.cn.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong 271018, China. Electronic address: suyh@sdau.edu.cn.
In the realm of genetically transformed crops, the process of plant regeneration holds utmost significance. However, the low regeneration efficiency of several wheat varieties currently restricts the use of genetic transformation for gene functional analysis and improved crop production. This research explores overexpression of TaLAX PANICLE1 (TaLAX1), which markedly enhances regeneration efficiency, thereby boosting genetic transformation and genome editing in wheat. Particularly noteworthy is the substantial increase in regeneration efficiency of common wheat varieties previously regarded as recalcitrant to genetic transformation. Our study shows that increased expression of TaGROWTH-REGULATING FACTOR (TaGRF) genes, alongside that of their co-factor, TaGRF-INTERACTING FACTOR 1 (TaGIF1), enhances cytokinin accumulation and auxin response, which may play pivotal roles in the improved regeneration and transformation of TaLAX1-overexpressing wheat plants. Overexpression of TaLAX1 homologs also significantly increases the regeneration efficiency of maize and soybean, suggesting that both monocot and dicot crops can benefit from this enhancement. Our findings shed light on a gene that enhances wheat genetic transformation and elucidate molecular mechanisms that potentially underlie wheat regeneration.
PMID: 37897039