Cell , IF:41.582 , 2025 Jan doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.12.018
A natural variant of COOL1 gene enhances cold tolerance for high-latitude adaptation in maize.
State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.; State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Biology and Genetic Improvement of Maize (MOA), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.; State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Plant Gene Research Center, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.; State Key Laboratory of Plant Environmental Resilience, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China. Electronic address: yangshuhua@cau.edu.cn.
Low temperature severely limits the growth, yield, and geographical distribution of maize (Zea mays L.). How maize adapts to cold climates remains largely unclear. Here, we identify a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor, COLD-RESPONSIVE OPERATION LOCUS 1 (COOL1), as a crucial regulator of maize cold tolerance through genome-wide association studies. Natural variations in the COOL1 promoter affect the binding affinity of ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5), a transcriptional factor repressing COOL1 transcription. COOL1, in turn, negatively regulates downstream cold-responsive genes, thereby modulating cold tolerance. Moreover, calcium-dependent protein kinase CPK17 translocates to the nucleus and stabilizes COOL1 in response to cold stress. Intriguingly, the cold-tolerant allele of COOL1 is predominantly distributed in northern high latitudes with cold climates. This study defines a previously unknown pathway by which the COOL1-centered module regulates cold tolerance for high latitudinal adaptation in maize.
PMID: 39842436
Nat Commun , IF:14.919 , 2025 Jan , V16 (1) : P1032 doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-56174-5
Natural variation of CTB5 confers cold adaptation in plateau japonica rice.
Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.; Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.; Institute of Food Crop Research, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming, China.; Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming, China.; Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China. lizichao@cau.edu.cn.; Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China. lijinjie@cau.edu.cn.
During cold acclimation in high-latitude and high-altitude regions, japonica rice develops enhanced cold tolerance, but the underlying genetic basis remains unclear. Here, we identify CTB5, a homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) transcription factor that confers cold tolerance at the booting stage in japonica rice. Four natural variations in the promoter and coding regions enhance cold response and transcriptional regulatory activity, enabling the favorable CTB5(KM) allele to improve cold tolerance. CTB5 interacts with OsHox12 and targets gibberellin (GA) metabolism genes to promote GAs accumulation in anthers and facilitate tapetum development under cold stress. Moreover, CTB5 directly regulates PYL9 and improves cold tolerance at the seedling stage by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. The CTB5(KM) allele is selected during the cold acclimation of japonica rice to plateau habitats in Yunnan Province. Our findings provide insights into the mechanisms underlying cold adaptation in plateau japonica rice and offer potential targets for breeding cold-tolerant rice varieties.
PMID: 39863601
J Pineal Res , IF:13.007 , 2025 Jan , V77 (1) : Pe70028 doi: 10.1111/jpi.70028
GATA3-COMT1-Melatonin as Upstream Signaling of ABA Participated in Se-Enhanced Cold Tolerance by Regulate Iron Uptake and Distribution in Cucumis sativus L.
State Key Laboratory of Nutrient Use and Management, Shandong Key Laboratory of Bulk Open-Field Vegetable Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Huang Huai Protected Horticulture Engineering, Institute of Vegetables, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, China.; Shandong Provincial Climate Center, Jinan, Shandong, China.; Weifang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Weifang, Shandong, China.; Zibo Digital Agriculture and Rural Development Center, Zibo, Shandong, China.; Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
Selenium has the function of bio-stimulating hormone. However, the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms of melatonin and abscisic acid as secondary messengers in improving cold tolerance by selenium are limited. This study investigated the effects of selenite on the cold stress of cucumber seedlings. The results showed that the content of endogenesis abscisic acid significantly changed with exogenous application of selenite under cold stress. Interestingly, we found that the content of iron significantly changed in this process. Iron uptake and distribution may be the important reason of selenium alleviates cold injury of cucumber seedlings. Whole genes transcriptome was used for screening key genes on leaf and root of cucumber seedlings. To determine the interrelation between abscisic acid and melatonin in selenite alleviating cold stress, abscisic acid inhibitor fluridone and melatonin synthesis inhibitor p-chlorophenylalanine were used for in-depth study. The results indicate that melatonin as upstream signal of ABA involved in selenium enhanced cucumber cold tolerance. The results of yeast single hybridization, EMSA, LUC, and overexpression transgenic showed that the transcription factor CsGATA3 regulates the expression of CsCOMT1 in vitro and in vivo and affects melatonin content. This study provides a theoretical basis for cucumber cultivation and breeding.
PMID: 39777792
New Phytol , IF:10.151 , 2025 Feb , V245 (3) : P1106-1123 doi: 10.1111/nph.20058
Strigolactones positively regulate HY5-dependent autophagy and the degradation of ubiquitinated proteins in response to cold stress in tomato.
Department of Horticulture, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China.; Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agriculture Sciences at Weifang, Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Weifang, 261200, China.; Hainan Institute, Zhejiang University, Sanya, 572000, China.; Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plants Growth, Development and Quality Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Yuhangtang Road 866, Hangzhou, 310058, China.; Shandong (Linyi) Institute of Modern Agriculture, Zhejiang University, Linyi, 276000, China.
Autophagy, involved in protein degradation and amino acid recycling, plays a key role in plant development and stress responses. However, the relationship between autophagy and phytohormones remains unclear. We used diverse methods, including CRISPR/Cas9, ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, chromatin immunoprecipitation, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and dual-luciferase assays to explore the molecular mechanism of strigolactones in regulating autophagy and the degradation of ubiquitinated proteins under cold stress in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). We show that cold stress induced the accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins. Mutants deficient in strigolactone biosynthesis were more sensitive to cold stress with increased accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins. Conversely, treatment with the synthetic strigolactone analog GR24(5DS) enhanced cold tolerance in tomato, with elevated levels of accumulation of autophagosomes and transcripts of autophagy-related genes (ATGs), and reduced accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins. Meanwhile, cold stress induced the accumulation of ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 (HY5), which was triggered by strigolactones. HY5 further trans-activated ATG18a transcription, resulting in autophagy formation. Mutation of ATG18a compromised strigolactone-induced cold tolerance, leading to decreased formation of autophagosomes and increased accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins. These findings reveal that strigolactones positively regulate autophagy in an HY5-dependent manner and facilitate the degradation of ubiquitinated proteins under cold conditions in tomato.
PMID: 39155750
Plant Physiol , IF:8.34 , 2025 Jan doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiaf035
Phosphorylation-dependent VaMYB4a regulates cold stress in grapevine by inhibiting VaPIF3 and activating VaCBF4.
School of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, Ningxia, China.; College of Enology and Horticulture, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, Ningxia, China.; Engineering Research Center of Grape and Wine, Ministry of Education, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, Ningxia, China.; Ningxia Grape and Wine Research Institute, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, Ningxia, China.
Cold stress severely impacts the quality and yield of grapevine (Vitis L.). In this study, we extend our previous work to elucidate the role and regulatory mechanisms of Vitis amurensis MYB transcription factor 4a (VaMYB4a) in grapevine's response to cold stress. Our results identified VaMYB4a as a key positive regulator of cold stress. We demonstrated that VaMYB4a undergoes phosphorylation by V. amurensis CBL-interacting protein kinase 18 (VaCIPK18) under cold stress, a process that activates VaMYB4a transcriptional activity. Using ChIP-seq, we performed a comprehensive genomic search to identify downstream components that interact with VaMYB4a, leading to the discovery of a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor, V. amurensis phytochrome-interacting factor 3 (VaPIF3). VaMYB4a attenuated the transcriptional activity of VaPIF3 through a phosphorylation-dependent interaction under cold conditions. Furthermore, VaPIF3, which interacts with and inhibits V. amurensis C-repeat binding factor 4 (VaCBF4, a known positive regulator of cold stress), has its activity attenuated by VaMYB4a, which mediates the modulation of this pathway. Notably, VaMYB4a also interacted with and promoted the expression of VaCBF4 in a phosphorylation-dependent manner. Our study shows that VaMYB4a positively modulates cold tolerance in plants by simultaneously downregulating VaPIF3 and upregulating VaCBF4. These findings provide a nuanced understanding of the transcriptional response in grapevine under cold stress and contribute to the broader field of plant stress physiology.
PMID: 39854635
Food Chem , IF:7.514 , 2025 Feb , V466 : P142198 doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.142198
Preharvest phenylalanine spraying alleviates chilling injury in harvested muskmelons by maintaining reactive oxygen species homeostasis.
College of Food Science and Engineering, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China.; Department of Postharvest and Food Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel.; College of Food Science and Engineering, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China. Electronic address: biyang@gsau.edu.cn.
In this study, muskmelon plant and fruit were sequentially sprayed with 8 mM phenylalanine (Phe) four times during fruit development. The effect of preharvest Phe spraying on chilling injury (CI) of harvested muskmelons was assessed and the mechanism involved was investigated. We found that Phe spray activated NADPH oxidase (NOX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and glutathione reductase (GR), and increased glutathione (GSH) and ascorbic acid (AsA) levels during fruit chilling. The spray increased endogenous Phe, total phenolic and flavonoid content, and DPPH and ABTS(+) scavenging capacity. In addition, the spray decreased O(2)(.-) production rate, H(2)O(2) levels, cell membrane permeability and malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and significantly reduced CI index in fruit, which was 16.5 %, 16.6 %, 13.5 %, 20.2 % and 26.5 % lower than the control after 28 d, respectively. In conclusion, Phe spraying alleviates CI in harvested muskmelons by maintaining ROS homeostasis.
PMID: 39612840
Food Chem , IF:7.514 , 2025 Mar , V468 : P142335 doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.142335
Cooked germ-remained milled rice presents high stability in water-holding capacity and textural properties during frozen storage-The protection effect of oil-phase reabsorption.
School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, Wuxi 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, Wuxi 214122, China.; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, Wuxi 214122, China; State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, Wuxi 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, Wuxi 214122, China. Electronic address: wangli0318@jiangnan.edu.cn.
To enhance the stability in textural attributes of frozen cooked rice, this study has found and proposed a new strategy: retaining the rice germ in milling process. Each rice germ is comparable to a native lipid-rich microcapsule attached to the endosperm part. In the gelatinization process, leached germ oil was reabsorbed in the outer layer of rice granule. Small lipidic molecules complexed with amylose and formed type I complex, while big lipidic molecules formed separate oil phase in the matrix. This mixed construction endowed cooked germ-remained milled rice with smaller magnitude of change in the water holding capacity and the ratio of stickiness/hardness, and fewer freezable water content than white rice. This work opens an attractive field to reinforce the structural stability of cooked rice against freezing stress without exogenous additives, and benefits to screen suitable raw materials for the development of frozen rice products.
PMID: 39667230
Plant Cell Environ , IF:7.228 , 2025 Jan doi: 10.1111/pce.15381
ZjMAPKK4 Interacted With ZjNAC78 Regulates Cold Tolerance Response in Jujube.
College of Horticulture, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China.; Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China.; College of Forestry, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China.; Research Center of Chinese Jujube, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China.
Jujube (Ziziphus ujuba Mill.) holds great importance as a fruit tree in China, with strong tolerance to drought and saline stress, but its growth is limited by vulnerability to cold stress. Consequently, the role of MAPK cascades in mediating jujube cold stress response remains unclear, with the specific function of ZjMAPKK4 in this context yet to be fully elucidated. Thus, in the current study, it was found that ZjMAPKK4 was significantly upregulated compared with other ZjMAPK cascade genes after cold treatment. Heterologous transformation of ZjMAPKK4 in Arabidopsis, VIGS-induced ZjMAPKK4 transiently silencing and overexpression of ZjMAPKK4 in jujube callus assays demonstrated that ZjMAPKK4 positively regulated the cold resistance of jujube. Furthermore, to elucidate the molecular regulation mechanism behind ZjMAPKK4 under cold stress, 25 key DEGs were screened out by transcriptome analysis. Yeast screening cDNA library, yeast two-hybrid, LCA and Co-IP analysis showed ZjMAPKK4 interacted with ZjNAC78 and VIGS-induced ZjNAC78 silenced sour jujube plants showed cold sensitivity and the expression level of cold response genes were downregulated after cold stress. All the results demonstrated that ZjMAPKK4 could interact with ZjNAC78 to regulate the downstream ZjICE-ZjCBF genes to regulate the cold tolerance of jujube.
PMID: 39810498
Plant Cell Environ , IF:7.228 , 2025 Jan doi: 10.1111/pce.15367
The Vacuolar Inositol Transporter BvINT1;1 Contributes to Raffinose Biosynthesis and Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging During Cold Stress in Sugar Beet.
University of Kaiserslautern, Plant Physiology, Paul-Ehrlich-Str., Kaiserslautern, Germany.; Istituto di Biofisica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via De Marini, Genova, Italy.; Friedrich-AlexanderUniversity of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Biochemistry, Staudtstr, Erlangen, Germany.; KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA, Grimsehlstr., Einbeck, Germany.
Despite a high sucrose accumulation in its taproot vacuoles, sugar beet (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris) is sensitive to freezing. Earlier, a taproot-specific accumulation of raffinose was shown to have beneficial effects on the freezing tolerance of the plant. However, synthesis of raffinose and other oligosaccharides of the raffinose family depends on the availability of myo-inositol. Since inositol and inositol-metabolising enzymes reside in different organelles, functional inositol metabolism and raffinose synthesis depend on inositol transporters. We identified five homologues of putative inositol transporters in the sugar beet genome, two of which, BvINT1;1 and BvINT1;2, are localised at the tonoplast. Among these, only the transcript of BvINT1;1 is highly upregulated in sugar beet taproots under cold. BvINT1;1 exhibits a high transport specificity for inositol and sugar beet mutants lacking functional BvINT1;1 contain increased inositol levels, likely accumulating in the vacuole, and decreased raffinose contents under cold treatment. Due to the quenching capacity of raffinose for Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), which accumulate under cold stress, bvint1;1 sugar beet plants show increased expression of both, ROS marker genes and detoxifying enzymes. Based on these findings, we conclude that the vacuolar inositol transporter BvINT1;1 is contributing to ROS-homoeostasis in the cold metabolism of sugar beet.
PMID: 39776406
Plant Cell Environ , IF:7.228 , 2025 Feb , V48 (2) : P1130-1148 doi: 10.1111/pce.15196
Amur Grape VaMYB4a-VaERF054-Like Module Regulates Cold Tolerance Through a Regulatory Feedback Loop.
College of Enology and Horticulture, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.; School of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.; Engineering Research Center of Grape and Wine, Ministry of Education, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.; Key Laboratory of Modern Molecular Breeding for Dominant and Special Crops in Ningxia, Yinchuan, China.; State Key Laboratory of Efficient Production of Forest Resources, Yinchuan, China.
Cold stress can limit the growth and development of grapevines, which can ultimately reduce productivity. However, the mechanisms by which grapevines respond to cold stress are not yet fully understood. Here, we characterized an APETALA2/ethylene response factor (AP2/ERF) which was shown to be a target gene of our previously identified VaMYB4a from Amur grape. We further investigated the molecular interactions between VaMYB4a and VaERF054-like transcription factors in grapes and their role in cold stress tolerance. Our results demonstrated that VaMYB4a directly binds to and activates the VaERF054-like gene promoter, leading to its enhanced expression. Moreover, we also explored the influence of ethylene precursors and inhibitors on VaERF054-like expression and grape cold tolerance. Our findings indicate that VaERF054-like contribute to cold tolerance in grapes through modulation of the ethylene pathway and the CBF signal pathway. Overexpression of VaERF054-like in Vitis vinifera 'Chardonnay' calli and transgenic grape lines resulted in increased freezing stress tolerance, confirming its role in the cold stress response. We further confirmed the interaction between VaMYB4a and VaERF054-like in vivo and in vitro. The co-transformation of VaMYB4a and VaERF054-like in grape calli demonstrates a synergistic interaction, enhancing the cold tolerance through a regulatory feedback mechanism. Our finding provides new insights into grape cold tolerance mechanisms, potentially contributing to the development of cold-resistant grape varieties.
PMID: 39412230
Plant Cell Environ , IF:7.228 , 2025 Jan , V48 (1) : P260-271 doi: 10.1111/pce.15125
Functional and Structural Analysis Reveals Distinct Biological Roles of Plant Synaptotagmins in Response to Environmental Stress.
Area de Mejora y Fisiologia de Plantas, Instituto de Hortofruticultura Subtropical y Mediterranea "La Mayora", Universidad de Malaga-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (IHSM-UMA-CSIC), Universidad de Malaga, Malaga, Spain.; Departamento de Botanica y Fisiologia Vegetal, Universidad de Malaga, Malaga, Spain.; Departamento de Cristalografia y Biologia Estructural, Instituto de Quimica Fisica Blas Cabrera, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (IQF-CSIC), Madrid, Spain.; Shanghai Center for Plant Stress Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences; Shanghai Institutes of Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.; Area de Proteccion de Cultivos, Instituto de Hortofruticultura Subtropical y Mediterranea "La Mayora", Universidad de Malaga-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (IHSM-UMA-CSIC), Universidad de Malaga, Malaga, Spain.
Endoplasmic reticulum-plasma membrane contact sites (ER-PM CSs) are evolutionarily conserved membrane domains found in all eukaryotes, where the ER closely interfaces with the PM. This short distance is achieved in plants through the action of tether proteins such as synaptotagmins (SYTs). Arabidopsis comprises five SYT members (SYT1-SYT5), but whether they possess overlapping or distinct biological functions remains elusive. SYT1, the best-characterized member, plays an essential role in the resistance to abiotic stress. This study reveals that the functionally redundant SYT1 and SYT3 genes, but not SYT5, are involved in salt and cold stress resistance. We also show that, unlike SYT5, SYT1 and SYT3 are not required for Pseudomonas syringae resistance. Since SYT1 and SYT5 interact in vivo via their SMP domains, the distinct functions of these proteins cannot be caused by differences in their localization. Interestingly, structural phylogenetic analysis indicates that the SYT1 and SYT5 clades emerged early in the evolution of land plants. We also show that the SYT1 and SYT5 clades exhibit different structural features in their SMP and Ca(2+ )binding of their C2 domains, rationalizing their distinct biological roles.
PMID: 39253952
Plant Cell Environ , IF:7.228 , 2025 Jan , V48 (1) : P97-108 doi: 10.1111/pce.15144
MYB Transcription Factor CDC5 Activates CBF3 Expression to Positively Regulate Freezing Tolerance via Cooperating With ICE1 and Histone Modification in Arabidopsis.
National Key Laboratory of Wheat Improvement, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China.
The freezing temperature greatly limits the growth, development and productivity of plants. The C-repeat/DRE binding factor (CBF) plays a major role in cold acclimation, enabling plants to increase their freezing tolerance. Notably, the INDUCER OF CBF EXPRESSION1 (ICE1) protein has garnered attention for its pivotal role in bolstering plants' resilience against freezing through transcriptional upregulation of DREB1A/CBF3. However, the research on the interaction between ICE1 and other transcription factors and its function in regulating cold stress tolerance is largely inadequate. In this study, we found that a R2R3 MYB transcription factor CDC5 interacts with ICE1 and regulates the expression of CBF3 by recruiting RNA polymerase II, overexpression of ICE1 can complements the freezing deficient phenotype of cdc5 mutant. CDC5 increases the expression of CBF3 in response to freezing. Furthermore, CDC5 influences the expression of CBF3 by altering the chromatin status through H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 modifications. Our work identified a novel component that regulates CBF3 transcription in both ICE1-dependent and ICE1-independent manner, improving the understanding of the freezing signal transduction in plants.
PMID: 39248548
Int J Biol Macromol , IF:6.953 , 2025 Jan : P139979 doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.139979
The CaCAD1-CaPOA1 module positively regulates pepper resistance to cold stress by increasing lignin accumulation.
College of Horticulture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.; College of Horticulture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China. Electronic address: lihuanxiu@sicau.edu.cn.
Low-temperature stress is a major environmental constraint, limiting the growth, development, and yield of peppers. Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) and peroxidase (POA) are two key enzymes in lignin synthesis, participating in monolignol biosynthesis and monolignol polymerization, respectively. Although CAD and POA are known to play central roles in lignin biosynthesis and plant responses to abiotic stress, their functions in peppers remain poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrated the interaction between CaCAD1 and CaPOA1, which collectively positively regulated lignin biosynthesis in peppers. Additionally, CaCAD1 and CaPOA1 expression was induced by low temperatures, with expression levels gradually increasing with prolonged cold treatment. Silencing of CaCAD1 or CaPOA1 increased the sensitivity of pepper plants to low temperatures. On the other hand, overexpression of CaCAD1 and CaPOA1 in Arabidopsis enhanced its reactive oxygen species scavenging ability and improved plant tolerance to freezing conditions. In summary, the CaCAD1-CaPOA1 module was shown to play a crucial role in pepper cold tolerance, providing valuable insights and targets for future molecular breeding efforts aimed at enhancing pepper cold tolerance.
PMID: 39826724
Int J Biol Macromol , IF:6.953 , 2025 Jan , V294 : P139473 doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.139473
A CCA1-like MYB subfamily member CsMYB128 participates in chilling sensitivity and cold tolerance in tea plants (Camellia sinensis).
Tea Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China.; State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, Anhui, China.; Key Laboratory of Tea Science of Ministry of Education, College of Horticulture, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.; Tea Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China. Electronic address: songlubin@saas.ac.cn.; Key Laboratory of Tea Science of Ministry of Education, College of Horticulture, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China. Electronic address: zhaojian@hunau.edu.cn.
While flavonoid accumulation, light radiation, and cold stress are intrinsically connected in tea plants, yet the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The circadian protein CCA1 and CCA1-like MYB transcription factors (TFs) play important roles in coordinating light and temperature signals in plant-environment interactions, their homologs in tea plants have not been addressed. Here we analyzed CsCCA1-like MYB subfamily in tea genome and found one member, a circadian gene CsMYB128 responding to cold stress. Antisense knockdown of CsMYB128 in tea buds rendered cold tolerance in cold tolerance tests. Metabolite profiling, yeast hybrid and promoter trans-activation assays further demonstrated that CsMYB128 negatively regulated flavonol biosynthesis by repressing CsFLS1 in flavonol biosynthesis and CsCBF1 in cold tolerance. Given CsCBF1 also activated CsMYB128 transcription, the negative feedback regulation loop indicates a balance between tea plant growth promoted by CsMYB128 and cold tolerance meanwhile growth inhibition by CsCBF1. Moreover, CsICE1 interacted with and inhibited CsMYB128 repressor activity to promote cold tolerance. CsMYB128 is thus characterized as an early cold-responsive gene negatively regulating tea plant cold response and balancing tea plant growth and cold tolerance. This study provides insights into the roles of CCA1-like subfamily MYB TFs in regulating tea plant growth and interactions with environments.
PMID: 39756759
Int J Biol Macromol , IF:6.953 , 2025 Jan , V287 : P138642 doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.138642
OsCYCBL1 and OsHTR702 positively regulate rice tolerance to cold stress.
State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute of Sichuan Agricultural University of Rice Research Institute, Chengdu 611130, China.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute of Sichuan Agricultural University of Rice Research Institute, Chengdu 611130, China. Electronic address: shiwei.zheng@uni-potsdam.de.; Demonstration Base for International Science & Technology Cooperation of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University 211, Huimin Road, Chengdu 611130, China.; State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute of Sichuan Agricultural University of Rice Research Institute, Chengdu 611130, China; Demonstration Base for International Science & Technology Cooperation of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University 211, Huimin Road, Chengdu 611130, China; Crop Ecophysiology and Cultivation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Rice Research Institute of Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China. Electronic address: 13782@sicau.edu.cn.
Chaling wild rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff.) can survive winter due to its extreme cold tolerance, whereas cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.) cannot. Here, we found that the expression level of OsCYCBL1 decreased relatively less at low temperatures in Chaling wild rice compared with cultivated rice. Transgenic assays of OsCYCBL1 in Nipponbare (Nip) showed that overexpression of OsCYCBL1 promoted cold tolerance. Transcriptome profiling, RT-qPCR analysis, and physiological parameters measurement indicated that overexpression of OsCYCBL1 maintained better DNA damage repair capacity, balanced the cell cycle, enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis, and increased wax content, directly affecting the ICE-CBF-COR cascade. Moreover, OsHTR702, a gene that interacts with OsCYCBL1, also positively regulates rice cold tolerance by affecting the ICE-CBF-COR cascade and increasing ROS homeostasis at low temperatures. In addition, overexpression of OsCYCBL1 and OsHTR702 enabled rice to survive through winter. Taken together, the current results indicate that OsCYCBL1 and OsHTR702 are related to cold tolerance in rice, making them potential targets for enhancing crop resilience to cold stress.
PMID: 39667477
Int J Biol Macromol , IF:6.953 , 2025 Jan , V285 : P138271 doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.138271
CaNAC76 enhances lignin content and cold resistance in pepper by regulating CaCAD1.
College of Horticulture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.; College of Horticulture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China. Electronic address: lihuanxiu@sicau.edu.cn.
Low temperature restricts the growth, development, and yield of peppers, significantly limiting the development of the pepper industry. NAC (NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2) transcription factors (TFs) are implicated in plant responses to cold stress, but their specific mechanisms in peppers are unclear. In this study, we isolated a cold-induced NAC transcription factor, CaNAC76, from pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). CaNAC76 is localized in the nucleus and cytoplasm and exhibits transcriptional activation activity. Silencing CaNAC76 expression reduced the activities of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase enzymes, resulting in decreased cold tolerance in peppers. Conversely, overexpressing CaNAC76 increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes and the expression of cold stress-responsive genes (ICE-CBF-COR) in Arabidopsis, enhancing the plant's freezing tolerance. Transcriptional regulation analysis showed that CaNAC76 directly binds to the promoter region of CaCAD1 and induces its expression. Similarly, low temperatures induced the expression of CaCAD1. Ectopic expression of CaCAD1 improved Arabidopsis freezing tolerance, whereas silencing CaCAD1 expression increased sensitivity to low temperatures. Furthermore, we observed that CaNAC76 overexpression enhanced CAD activity and lignin content in Arabidopsis, leading to lignin deposition in the xylem and interfascicular fibers. In summary, the results demonstrate that CaNAC76 can enhance cold tolerance in peppers by affecting both CBF-dependent (ICE-CBF-COR) and CBF-independent pathways (promoting CaCAD1 expression).
PMID: 39631584
Cells , IF:6.6 , 2025 Jan , V14 (2) doi: 10.3390/cells14020110
Plant Coping with Cold Stress: Molecular and Physiological Adaptive Mechanisms with Future Perspectives.
Henan Collaborative Innovation Centre of Modern Biological Breeding, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, China.; State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agroecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.; Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Shandong Agriculture University, Tai'an 271018, China.; Agricultural Research Station, Office of VP for Research & Graduate Studies, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar.
Cold stress strongly hinders plant growth and development. However, the molecular and physiological adaptive mechanisms of cold stress tolerance in plants are not well understood. Plants adopt several morpho-physiological changes to withstand cold stress. Plants have evolved various strategies to cope with cold stress. These strategies included changes in cellular membranes and chloroplast structure, regulating cold signals related to phytohormones and plant growth regulators (ABA, JA, GA, IAA, SA, BR, ET, CTK, and MET), reactive oxygen species (ROS), protein kinases, and inorganic ions. This review summarizes the mechanisms of how plants respond to cold stress, covering four main signal transduction pathways, including the abscisic acid (ABA) signal transduction pathway, Ca(2+) signal transduction pathway, ROS signal transduction pathway, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK/MPK) cascade pathway. Some transcription factors, such as AP2/ERF, MYB, WRKY, NAC, and bZIP, not only act as calmodulin-binding proteins during cold perception but can also play important roles in the downstream chilling-signaling pathway. This review also highlights the analysis of those transcription factors such as bHLH, especially bHLH-type transcription factors ICE, and discusses their functions as phytohormone-responsive elements binding proteins in the promoter region under cold stress. In addition, a theoretical framework outlining plant responses to cold stress tolerance has been proposed. This theory aims to guide future research directions and inform agricultural production practices, ultimately enhancing crop resilience to cold stress.
PMID: 39851537
Plant J , IF:6.417 , 2025 Jan , V121 (1) : Pe17172 doi: 10.1111/tpj.17172
ERD14 regulation by the HY5- or HY5-MED2 module mediates the cold signal transduction of asparagus bean.
College of Horticulture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan, China.
Cold stress affects the growth, development, and yield of asparagus bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis). Mediator (MED) complex subunits regulate the cold tolerance of asparagus bean, but the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. Here, VunMED2 positively responds to cold stress of asparagus beans. Under cold acclimation and freezing treatment, the survival rate, ROS scavenging activity, and expression levels of VunMED2 were increased in VunMED2 transgenic plants. Natural variation in the promoter of VunMED2 in two different cold-tolerant asparagus beans was observed. Under cold stress, the expression of the GUS reporter gene was higher in cold-tolerant plants than in cold-sensitive plants, and the expression of the GUS reporter gene was tissue-specific. VunHY5 positively influenced the expression of VunMED2 by binding to the E-box motif, and the transcriptional activation of the promoter was stronger in the cold-tolerant variety than in cold-sensitive plants. VunHY5 overexpression improved plant freezing resistance by increasing the antioxidant capacity and expression of dehydrin genes. VunHY5 and VunMED2 play a synergistic role in binding to the G-box/ABRE motif and transcriptionally activating the expression of VunERD14. VunERD14 complemented the med2 mutant, which could positively respond to plant freezing resistance by reducing membrane lipid peroxidation and improving the antioxidant capacity. Therefore, the VunHY5-VunERD14 module and the VunHY5-VunMED2-VunERD14 positive cascade effect are involved in the cold signal transduction in asparagus bean. Our findings have implications for the breeding of asparagus bean varieties with improved cold tolerance.
PMID: 39589925
Antioxidants (Basel) , IF:6.312 , 2025 Jan , V14 (1) doi: 10.3390/antiox14010074
The Role of Polyphenols in Abiotic Stress Tolerance and Their Antioxidant Properties to Scavenge Reactive Oxygen Species and Free Radicals.
State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China.
Plants have evolved complex mechanisms to cope with diverse abiotic stresses, with the phenylpropanoid pathway playing a central role in stress adaptation. This pathway produces an array of secondary metabolites, particularly polyphenols, which serve multiple functions in plant growth, development, regulating cellular processes, and stress responses. Recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying phenylpropanoid metabolism have revealed complex regulatory networks involving MYB transcription factors as master regulators and their interactions with stress signaling pathways. This review summarizes our current understanding of polyphenol-mediated stress adaptations in plants, emphasizing the regulation and function of key phenylpropanoid pathway compounds. We discussed how various abiotic stresses, including heat and chilling stress, drought, salinity, light stress, UV radiation, nanoparticles stress, chemical stress, and heavy metal toxicity, modulate phenylpropanoid metabolism and trigger the accumulation of specific polyphenolic compounds. The antioxidant properties of these metabolites, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, lignin, and polyphenols, and their roles in reactive oxygen species scavenging, neutralizing free radicals, membrane stabilization, and osmotic adjustment are discussed. Understanding these mechanisms and metabolic responses is crucial for developing stress-resilient crops and improving agricultural productivity under increasingly challenging environmental conditions. This review provides comprehensive insights into integrating phenylpropanoid metabolism with plant stress adaptation mechanisms, highlighting potential targets for enhancing crop stress tolerance through metabolic adjustment.
PMID: 39857408
Int J Mol Sci , IF:5.923 , 2024 Dec , V26 (1) doi: 10.3390/ijms26010278
Abscisic Acid, Microtubules and Phospholipase D-Solving a Cellular Bermuda Triangle.
State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas (Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Apple), College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.; Molecular Cell Biology, Joseph Gottlieb Kolreuter Institute for Plant Sciences, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 4, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
Rice plants are important food crops that are sensitive to cold stress. Microtubules (MTs) are highly associated with plant response to cold stress. The exogenous application of abscisic acid (ABA) can transiently induce the cold stability of microtubules. These phenotypes were accompanied by the transient increase in Phospholipase D (PLD) enzyme activity. The analysis of detyrosinated/tyrosinated alpha-tubulin by Western blot in the NtTUA3 line or in the NtTUA3+OsTTL line gave us such a conclusion that the effect of ABA on detyrosinated alpha-tubulin not only was regulated by ABA but also was dependent on the TTLL12 protein. The dual ABA and 1% n-butanol treatments had shown that ABA-induced detyrosinated alpha-tubulin in a manner distinct from the n-butanol pathway. Detecting the detyrosinated alpha-tubulin level after pre-treatment with pertussis toxin (PTX), a G-protein inhibitor, followed by ABA, as well as mastoparan (Mas7) treatment suggested that the effect of ABA on detyrosinated alpha-tubulin was dependent on PLD activity.
PMID: 39796137
Front Plant Sci , IF:5.753 , 2024 , V15 : P1508333 doi: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1508333
Analysis of quantitative trait loci and candidate gene exploration associated with cold tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.) during the seedling stage.
Department of Southern Area Crop Science, National Institute of Crop Science, Rural Development Administration (RDA), Miryang, Republic of Korea.; Planning and Coordination Division, National Institute of Crop Science, Rural Development Administration (RDA), Jeonju, Republic of Korea.; Department of Plant Bioscience, Pusan National University, Miryang, Republic of Korea.
Cold stress during the seedling stage significantly threatens rice (Oryza sativa L.) production, specifically in temperate climates. This study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with cold tolerance at the seedling stage. QTL analysis was conducted on a doubled haploid (DH) population derived from a cross between the cold-sensitive indica cultivar 93-11 and the cold-tolerant japonica cultivar Milyang352. Phenotypic analysis was conducted over 2 years (2022-2023) under cold water treatment (13 degrees C) at the Chuncheon Substation, South Korea. Cold tolerance scores were used to classify the DH populations and parental lines. In 2022, three QTLs were identified on chromosomes 3, 10, and 11; in 2023, a single QTL was identified on chromosome 10. The QTL qCTS10(22/23) on chromosome 10 was consistently observed across both years, explaining up to 16.06% and 40.55% of the phenotypic variance, respectively. Fine-mapping of qCTS10(22/23) narrowed the candidate region to a 300-kb interval containing 44 polymorphic single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Among the candidate genes, Os10g0409400 was significantly expressed in the cold-tolerant japonica parent Milyang352 under cold stress, indicating its role in conferring cold tolerance. These findings offer valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms of cold tolerance and highlight qCTS10(22/23) as a potential target for marker-assisted selection in rice breeding programs to enhance cold tolerance.
PMID: 39840352
Genomics , IF:5.736 , 2025 Jan , V117 (1) : P110981 doi: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110981
Tissue-specific chromatin accessibility and transcriptional regulation in maize cold stress response.
School of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China. Electronic address: jinleihan@ntu.edu.cn.; School of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China.; National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan.; Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA.; School of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China. Electronic address: kwang5@ntu.edu.cn.
Maize, a vital crop globally, faces significant yield losses due to its sensitivity to cold stress, especially in temperate regions. Understanding the molecular mechanisms governing maize response to cold stress is crucial for developing strategies to enhance cold tolerance. However, the precise chromatin-level regulatory mechanisms involved remain largely unknown. In this study, we employed DNase-seq and RNA-seq techniques to investigate chromatin accessibility and gene expression changes in maize root, stem, and leaf tissues subjected to cold treatment. We discovered widespread changes in chromatin accessibility and gene expression across these tissues, with strong tissue specificity. Cold stress-induced DNase I hypersensitive sites (coiDHSs) were associated with differentially expressed genes, suggesting a direct link between chromatin accessibility and gene regulation under cold stress. Motif enrichment analysis identified ERF transcription factors (TFs) as central regulators conserved across tissues, with ERF5 emerging as pivotal in the cold response regulatory network. Additionally, TF co-localization analysis highlighted six TF pairs (ERF115-SHN3, ERF9-LEP, ERF7-SHN3, LEP-SHN3, LOB-SHN3, and AS2-LOB) conserved across tissues but showing tissue-specific binding preferences. These findings indicate intricate regulatory networks in maize cold response. Overall, our study provides insights into the chromatin-level regulatory mechanisms underpinning maize adaptive response to cold stress, offering potential targets for enhancing cold tolerance in agricultural contexts.
PMID: 39701501
Genomics , IF:5.736 , 2025 Jan , V117 (1) : P110978 doi: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110978
SlAN2 overexpression improves cold resistance in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) by regulating glycolysis and ascorbic acid metabolism.
College of Agriculture and Biology, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China.; College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, China.; Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Modern Biological Breeding, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China. Electronic address: qintengfeisam@163.com.; College of Agriculture and Biology, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China. Electronic address: 596088683@qq.com.; College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China. Electronic address: guoshangjing@qau.edu.cn.; College of Agriculture and Biology, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China. Electronic address: wbj8258033@163.com.
Chilling stress seriously affects the growth and yield of tomato. Anthocyanin is a typical chilling-induced metabolite with strong antioxidant activity and photoprotective capacity. Here, we found that anthocyanin was also involved in ascorbic acid biosynthesis and glycolysis under chilling stress. SlAN2 is an important positive gene in anthocyanin biosynthesis. The results of physiological indicators showed that SlAN2 overexpression lines (A189) had a greater ability to tolerate cold stress than wild-type (WT) plants. Conjoint analysis of transcriptomics and metabonomics of A189 lines and WT plants was used to analyze the metabolic difference and the cold resistance mechanisms caused by anthocyanin under chilling stress. The anthocyanin accumulated more in A189 than that in WT under chilling stress at 4 degrees C for 24 h, which led to hexoses and ascorbic acid increased significantly. Results indicate that SlAN2 overexpression reduces the expression of key enzyme genes in glycolytic pathway such as phosphofructokinase (PFK) and pyruvate kinase (PK) genes, weakens glycolysis ability, and promotes accumulation of hexoses in A189 lines at 4 degrees C for 24 h compared with wild lines. Additionally, ascorbic acid content is increased by up-regulated the genes of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR). The increased hexose content can reduce cell osmotic potential, freezing point and synthesize more ascorbic acid, while the increased ascorbic acid content can enhance the ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species, so improves the cold resistance of tomato. The glycolysis and ascorbic acid metabolism pathway mediated by SlAN2 provides a new insight for the molecular mechanism of anthocyanins in improving the cold resistance of tomato and provides a new theoretical basis for cultivating new cold-tolerant tomato varieties.
PMID: 39674420
Theor Appl Genet , IF:5.699 , 2025 Jan , V138 (1) : P16 doi: 10.1007/s00122-024-04810-x
Unlocking ABA's role in rice cold tolerance: insights from Zhonghua 11 and Kasalath.
College of Agriculture, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China.; State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, Hunan Hybrid Rice Research Center, Changsha, 410125, Hunan, China. yuandingyang@hhrrc.ac.cn.; College of Agriculture, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China. duanmeijuan@163.com.; Hunan Women's University, Changsha, 410004, Hunan, China. duanmeijuan@163.com.; College of Agriculture, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China. liucitao@hunau.edu.cn.
Unraveling key ABA pathways, including OsWRKY71-OsABA8ox1 and OsbZIP73-OsNCED5, provides valuable insights for improving cold tolerance in rice breeding for cold-prone regions. Cold stress limits rice (Oryza sativa L.) production in cooler climates. This study uncovers how abscisic acid (ABA) signaling enhances cold tolerance in the rice variety Zhonghua 11 (ZH11) compared to the cold-sensitive Kasalath. Under cold stress, ZH11 rapidly accumulates ABA through efficient regulation of key genes. The transcription factor OsWRKY71(ZH11) represses the ABA catabolism gene OsABA8ox1 during early stress, enabling quick ABA accumulation. Additionally, OsbZIP73 regulates the ABA synthesis gene OsNCED5 to maintain ABA balance during prolonged stress. Transgenic ZH11 plants overexpressing OsWRKY71(ZH11) exhibited enhanced cold tolerance, while overexpression of OsWRKY71(Ka) did not confer benefits. Haplotype analysis linked allelic variations in OsWRKY71 and OsNCED5 to differences in cold tolerance. Our findings highlight critical ABA signaling pathways that enhance cold tolerance in rice. Targeting these pathways offers promising strategies for breeding cold-resistant rice varieties, improving resilience in cold-prone regions.
PMID: 39751652
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2025 Jan : P112399 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2025.112399
Regulatory networks of bZIPs in drought, salt and cold stress response and signaling.
Department of Life Sciences, Yuncheng University, Yuncheng, Shanxi 044000, PR China.; State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China.; State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, PR China. Electronic address: whling@bjfu.edu.cn.
Abiotic stresses adversely impact plants survival and growth, which in turn affect plants especially crop yields worldwide. To cope with these stresses, plant responses depend on the activation of molecular networks cascades, including stress perception, signal transduction, and the expression of specific stress-related genes. Plant bZIP (basic leucine zipper) transcription factors are important regulators that respond to diverse abiotic stresses.By binding to specific cis-elements, bZIPs can control the transcription of target genes, giving plants stress resistance. This review describes the structural characteristics of bZIPs and summarizes recent progress in analyzing the molecular mechanisms regulating plant responses to salinity, drought, and cold in different plant species. The main goal is to deepen the understanding of bZIPs and explore their value in genetic improvement of plants.
PMID: 39874989
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2025 Jan , V352 : P112390 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2025.112390
Molecular mechanisms of cold stress response in cotton: Transcriptional reprogramming and genetic strategies for tolerance.
National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China.; National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China; National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya, Hainan 57202, China.; National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China; National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya, Hainan 57202, China. Electronic address: dujeffrey8848@hotmail.com.
Cold stress has a huge impact on the growth and development of cotton, presenting a significant challenge to its productivity. Comprehending the complex molecular mechanisms that control the reaction to CS is necessary for developing tactics to improve cold tolerance in cotton. This review paper explores how cotton responds to cold stress by regulating gene expression, focusing on both activating and repressing specific genes. We investigate the essential roles that transcription factors and regulatory elements have in responding to cold stress and controlling gene expression to counteract the negative impacts of low temperatures. Through a comprehensive examination of new publications, we clarify the intricacies of transcriptional reprogramming induced by cold stress, emphasizing the connections between different regulatory elements and signaling pathways. Additionally, we investigate the consecutive effects of cold stress on cotton yield, highlighting the physiological and developmental disturbances resulting from extended periods of low temperatures. The knowledge obtained from this assessment allows for a more profound comprehension of the molecular mechanisms that regulate cold stress responses, suggesting potential paths for future research to enhance cold tolerance in cotton by utilizing targeted genetic modifications and biotechnological interventions.
PMID: 39827949
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2025 Jan , V352 : P112380 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112380
Overexpression of SikPsaF can increase the biomass of Broussonetia papyrifera by improving its photosynthetic efficiency and cold tolerance.
College of Life Science, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: wm78966026@163.com.; College of Life Science, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: 1473116055@qq.com.; College of Life Science, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: 1123992958@qq.com.; College of Life Science, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: 1124454462@qq.com.; College of Life Science, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: 2715081849@qq.com.; College of Life Science, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: 2640634187@qq.com.; Yili Normal University, Yining 835000, PR China. Electronic address: 84861195@qq.com.; College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: zhangfanfan@shzu.edu.cn.; Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: zl491191385@163.com.; College of Life Science, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, PR China. Electronic address: guoxinyong2013@163.com.
Photosynthesis is essential for the accumulation of organic compounds in plant leaves. Study of photosynthesis in the leaves of Broussonetia papyrifera is crucial for enhancing its biomass production, growth, and development. Here, we cloned the SikPsaF gene associated with photosynthesis from Saussurea involucrata and constructed a vector that was introduced into B. papyrifera to generate a transgenic strain. We then assessed various photosynthesis-related parameters in the transgenic plants and examined the function of this gene and its expression patterns under cold stress. The results showed that SikPsaF was localized to chloroplasts. Its expression was induced by light, and its expression was higher in the leaves than in other tissues. Furthermore, SikPsaF expression increased significantly under cold stress. The biomass of transgenic lines was greater than that of wild-type plants. Overexpression of this gene led to increases in the chlorophyll content and photosynthetic indices, which mitigated cell membrane damage and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. SikPsaF overexpression also helped maintain high antioxidant enzyme activity and a high content of osmoregulatory substances during stress; the increased enzyme activities were due to up-regulated gene expression. Overexpression of SikPsaF has a major effect on growth and development by enhancing photosynthetic efficiency, improving yield, conferring cold resistance, and reducing damage to the cell membrane and ROS accumulation at low temperatures. In summary, our findings indicate that these transgenic plants have enhanced photosynthetic efficiency and resilience against biotic stresses.
PMID: 39756483
Plant Sci , IF:4.729 , 2025 Jan , V350 : P112293 doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112293
VvbZIP22 regulates quercetin synthesis to enhances cold resistance in grape.
College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China.; College of Food Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China.; College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China. Electronic address: liuxin6080@126.com.
Grapes are one of the important fruit crops widely cultivated in the world, with high nutritional and economic value. However, with the intensification of global warming, extreme low temperature has seriously affected the development of the grape industry. Quercetin is a highly antioxidant active substance that can enhance the tolerance of plants to external environmental stress, but its function and mechanism in response to low-temperature stress in grapes are still unclear. Here, we found that grapes accumulate more quercetin under low-temperature stress, and exogenous quercetin can significantly improve the cold resistance of grapes. The key quercetin synthesis gene VvFLS1 (flavanol synthase 1) is up-regulated after low-temperature treatment, and overexpression of VvFLS1 increases quercetin content and enhances the cold resistance of grape. Yeast one-hybrid and dual luciferase reporter systems demonstrate that VvbZIP22 (basic-leucine zipper 22) directly binds to the VvFLS1 promoter, and VvbZIP22 has cold-induced expression characteristics. Overexpression of VvbZIP22 significantly improves the cold resistance of grape. The above results indicate that quercetin plays an important role in the response of grapes to low-temperature stress. Under low temperature, VvbZIP22 can mediate quercetin synthesis through regulating VvFLS1, alleviate oxidative damage, and improve the cold resistance of grapes.
PMID: 39414149
Plant Cell Rep , IF:4.57 , 2025 Jan , V44 (2) : P34 doi: 10.1007/s00299-024-03384-8
Combining resistance indicators, metabolomes and transcriptomes to reveal correlations in disease and cold resistance in tea plant and analyze the key domain NB-ARC.
Department of Tea Science, College of Horticulture Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.; Department of Tea Science, College of Horticulture Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China. 13501513191@163.com.
Integration of resistance indicators, metabolomes, and transcriptomes to elucidate that there is a positive correlation between disease susceptibility and cold tolerance in tea plants. The flavonoid pathway was found to be the major metabolic and transcriptional enrichment pathway. A key domain NB-ARC was identified through joint analysis, along with analysis of key domains within the NB-ARC protein. Tea is a healthy beverage and the tea plant is a woody plant rich in secondary metabolites. In the face of abnormal climate change year by year, it is important to investigate the mechanisms by which tea plants resist both biotic and abiotic stresses. In this study, we found different tea plant cultivars were evaluated for cold and disease resistance have highly correlated. Subsequently, two cold and fungal resistant cultivars were screened from a Shuixian population that had been cold domesticated for 50 years, and transcriptome and metabolome assays were performed on the two materials under cold and anthracnose stresses, using Baiye Dancong as a control. The analyses found that differential metabolites were most enriched in the flavonoid pathway and differentially expressed genes were most enriched in the pathway related to disease course after pathogen stress and cold stress. Combined metabolome and transcriptome analyses identified 30 genes that were positively correlated with flavonoid content after pathogen stress and cold stress, of which the number of genes with NB-ARC structural domains was 11, which accounted for the largest proportion. These 11 genes with NB-ARC structural domains were analyzed by family analysis and found to be highly involved in different tissues transcriptomes of tea plants, indicating the importance of the NB-ARC structural domains in biotic and abiotic stresses, and providing a theoretical basis of analysis for the subsequent related studies. In this study, through the identification of resistance in different varieties of tea plant and the multi-omics approach, we found the genes related to the key structural domain NB-ARC, which lays the foundation for the study of biologically and abiologically important mechanisms in response to the disease in tea plant.
PMID: 39847084
Physiol Plant , IF:4.5 , 2025 Jan-Feb , V177 (1) : Pe70078 doi: 10.1111/ppl.70078
Assessment of cold resistance in tobacco varieties using JIP-test parameters and seedling growth.
College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.; Fujian Institute of Tobacco Sciences, Fuzhou, China.; Haixia Institute of Science and Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China.; Ministerial and Provincial Joint Innovation Centre for Safety Production of Cross-Strait Crops, College of Geography and Oceanography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, China.
Cold stress (CS) is a significant natural hazard, and distinguishing between plant cold resistance and sensitivity is critical for cultivar breeding and the development of germplasm resources. This study used 205 tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) varieties from around the world to investigate the changes in the chlorophyll a fluorescence (OJIP) transients, JIP-test parameters, and seedling growth caused by seven days of CS (5 degrees C) treatment. Their cold resistance was assessed using the cold-resistant coefficient, derived from the relative growth rate of shoots, damage scores, and JIP-test parameters. The results showed that total electron carriers per reaction center (S(m)) and relative variable fluorescence at the I-step (V(I)) were better indicators of cold resistance than maximum quantum yield of photochemistry at t = 0 (F(v)/F(m)), which was widely used to assess plant cold resistance. Next, the study examined the effects of CS and subsequent recovery on OJIP transients, JIP-test parameters, and seedling growth in two highly resistant (HR) and two highly sensitive (HS) varieties to confirm the reliability of the assessment methods. The results indicated that HR varieties experienced less photoinhibitory damage to photosystem II, exhibited lower growth inhibition during CS, and showed better recovery during the recovery period compared to HS varieties. These findings suggested that the JIP-test parameters could serve as a reliable tool for assessing tobacco cold resistance and aid in selecting varieties with enhanced resilience to CS.
PMID: 39868639
Physiol Plant , IF:4.5 , 2025 Jan-Feb , V177 (1) : Pe70053 doi: 10.1111/ppl.70053
Overexpression of the Vitis amurensis Ca(2+)-binding protein gene VamCP1 in Arabidopsis thaliana and grapevine improves cold tolerance.
College of Enology and Horticulture, Ningxia University/College of Modern Grape and Wine Industry/Ningxia Grape and Wine Research Institute/Engineering Research Center of Grape and Wine, Ministry of Education, Yinchuan, P.R. China.
Calcium ions (Ca(2+)) are important second messengers and are known to participate in cold signal transduction. In the current study, we characterized a Ca(2+)-binding protein gene, VamCP1, from the extremely cold-tolerant grape species Vitis amurensis. VamCP1 expression varied among organs but was highest in leaves following cold treatment, peaking 24 h after treatment onset. VamCP1 was found to localize to the plasma membrane and nucleus and the gene showed transcriptional autoactivation activity. Overexpression of VamCP1 in Arabidopsis thaliana and grapevine (V. vinifera) resulted in transgenic plants that were more tolerant to cold stress than the wild type. This correlated with reduced accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), elevated activity of antioxidant enzymes and proline content, as well as lower levels of malondialdehyde and electrolyte leakage. Additionally, the expression of genes related to cold tolerance, including C-repeat binding factors (CBF) and cold-regulated (COR) genes, was higher in the transgenic lines. Taken together, our results indicate that overexpression of VamCP1 enhanced cold tolerance in plants by promoting the upregulation of genes related to cold tolerance and scavenging of excessive ROS. These findings provide a foundation for the molecular breeding of cold-tolerant grapevine.
PMID: 39812167
Physiol Plant , IF:4.5 , 2025 Jan-Feb , V177 (1) : Pe70025 doi: 10.1111/ppl.70025
Transgenic Cynodon dactylon overexpressing CdPIF4 alters plant development and cold stress tolerance.
Coastal Salinity Tolerant Grass Engineering and Technology Research Center, Ludong University, Yantai, China.
Bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] is widely used for soil remediation, livestock forage, and as turfgrass for sports fields, parks, and gardens due to its resilience and adaptability. However, low temperatures are critical factors limiting its geographical distribution and ornamental season, even preventing its safe overwintering. PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTOR 4 (PIF4) acts as a hub transcription factor, not only regulating various light responses but also integrating multiple external stimuli to improve plant productivity and architectural adaptation under adverse stress conditions, which makes it potential as a target gene. In this study, we cloned and characterized the CdPIF4 genes in bermudagrass. Expression analysis revealed that it is predominantly expressed in leaves and is regulated by photoperiod and cold stress. Using Agrobacterium-mediated genetic modification, we successfully generated CdPIF4a-overexpressing bermudagrass lines. Under cold stress at 4 degrees C, these transgenic plants demonstrated enhanced cold tolerance, as indicated by higher relative water content, reduced membrane damage, and lower levels of lipid peroxidation levels. Photosynthetic analysis revealed that CdPIF4a-overexpressing plants exhibited higher light energy capture and transfer efficiency at this low temperature, with less energy loss. Additionally, they showed higher antioxidant enzyme activity and lower levels of reactive oxygen species levels. The responsive regulation of cold stress-related genes further validated the role of the CdPIF4a gene in enhancing cold tolerance. This study elucidates that CdPIF4 enhances cold tolerance in bermudagrass through physiological and molecular mechanisms, offering new insights and valuable genetic resources for advancing cold resistance research in bermudagrass and other grass species.
PMID: 39743672
Sci Rep , IF:4.379 , 2025 Jan , V15 (1) : P3351 doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-86499-6
Exogenous LEA proteins expression enhances cold tolerance in mammalian cells by reducing oxidative stress.
Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy.; Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy.; Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec, 05-552, Warsaw, Poland.; Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy. ploi@unite.it.
Understanding the molecular mechanisms that confer cold resistance in mammalian cells might be relevant for advancing medical applications. This study aimed to exploit the protective function of Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins, known to provide resistance to low temperatures in extremophiles and plants, by their exogenous expression in mammalian cells, and compare their effects with the well characterized antioxidant, vitamin E.Remarkably, the expression of LEA proteins in mammalian cells exerted cold-protective effect similar to Vitamin E. LEA proteins preserved cell viability during cold stress and ensured a normal metabolic activity after warming. Their protective action was due to the mitigation of cold-induced mitochondrial stress and the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading in turn to enhanced cytoskeleton stability and decreased DNA damage. Our studies showed that plant-derived LEA proteins exhibit remarkable cold protection effects in mammalian cells through their potent antioxidant properties, which was found comparable to Vitamin E.
PMID: 39870738
Sci Rep , IF:4.379 , 2025 Jan , V15 (1) : P1837 doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-84472-3
Titanium dioxide -mediated regulation of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, pigments, and diosgenin content promotes cold stress tolerance in Trigonella foenum-graecum L.
Agronomy and Plant Breeding Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrood University of Technology, Semnan, Iran.; Agronomy and Plant Breeding Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrood University of Technology, Semnan, Iran. Aminebrahimi@shahroodut.ac.ir.; Horticultural Sciences Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Iran.; Department of Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Iran.; Plant Production Engineering and Genetics Department, Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.
Abiotic stresses, notably cold stress, significantly influence various aspects of plant development and reproduction. Various approaches have been proposed to counteract the adverse impacts of cold stress on plant productivity. The unique properties of nanoparticles contribute to an enhanced tolerance of plants to challenging conditions. This study explores the impact of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO(2) NPs) on cold-stress tolerance in fenugreek, as well as genes expression involved in the diosgenin biosynthesis pathway. Varied concentrations of TiO(2) NPs (0, 2, 5, and 10 ppm) were sprayed on fenugreek plants subjected to cold stress at 10 degrees C during 6, 24, and 48 h. Our findings revealed that the utilization of 2 and 5 ppm of TiO(2) NPs, positively influenced pigments biosynthesis and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities. It also effectively reduced electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde content, mitigating the adverse effects of cold stress. The study also highlighted TiO(2) NPs' affirmative impact on defense signaling pathways, including abscisic acid, nitric oxide, and auxin, in fenugreek. Moreover, TiO(2) NPs significantly influenced the expression of genes related to diosgenin biosynthesis. Simultaneous exposure to cold stress and TiO(2) NPs led to a substantial increase in diosgenin content, with the upregulation of SEP, SQS, CAS, and SSR genes compared to control conditions. This research indicated that TiO(2) NPs application could effectively stimulate fenugreek biosynthesis of primary and secondary metabolites, consequently enhancing plant tolerance to cold stress. The study's outcomes hold promise for potential applications in the metabolic engineering of diosgenin in fenugreek.
PMID: 39805881
Sci Rep , IF:4.379 , 2025 Jan , V15 (1) : P1735 doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-86057-0
PiERF1 regulates cold tolerance in Plumbago indica L. through ethylene signalling.
College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China.; College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China. gao_suping@sicau.edu.cn.
Ethylene is a signalling factor that plays a key role in the response of plants to abiotic stresses, such as cold stress. Recent studies have shown that the exogenous application of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC), an ethylene promoter, affects plant cold tolerance. The cold-responsive specific gene DREB plays a crucial role in enhancing cold tolerance in plants by activating several cold-responsive (COR) genes. However, how the ethylene biosynthesis pathway regulates this gene in the cold response of thermophilic plants has yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, the thermophilic plant Plumbago indica L. was used as an example. Physiological experiments and transcriptomic analyses revealed that cold stress treatment induced the synthesis of endogenous ACC and regulated the ethylene signalling activator PiERF1, and cold signalling also activated PiDREB1A. Spray experiments also revealed that ACC-induced upregulation of the PiERF1 gene reduced the cold tolerance of P. indica and decreased the expression level of the PiDREB1A gene. These results indicate that ethylene signalling directly regulates the downstream gene PiERF1 and initiates the DREB‒COR cold-responsive signalling pathway to regulate cold tolerance, resulting in the negative regulation of cold tolerance in thermophilic plants.
PMID: 39799157
Sci Rep , IF:4.379 , 2025 Jan , V15 (1) : P426 doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-84491-0
Subtilisin-like protease 4 regulates cold tolerance through cell wall modification in rice.
Tianjin Key Laboratory of Intelligent Breeding of Major Crops, College of Agronomy & Resources and Environment, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, 300384, China. liujingyan826@qq.com.; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Intelligent Breeding of Major Crops, College of Agronomy & Resources and Environment, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, 300384, China.; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, Guangdong, China.; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Intelligent Breeding of Major Crops, College of Agronomy & Resources and Environment, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, 300384, China. goodrice@263.net.
Rice is susceptible to cold temperatures, especially during the seedling stage. Despite extensive research into the cold tolerance mechanisms of rice, the number of cloned genes remains limited. Plant subtilisin-like proteases (SUBs or SBTs) are protein-hydrolyzing enzymes which play important roles in various aspects of plant growth as well as the plant response to biotic and abiotic stress. The rice SUB gene family consists of 62 members, but it is unknown whether they are involved in the response to cold stress. In this study, we observed that a loss-of-function SUB4 mutant exhibited enhanced cold tolerance at the seedling stage. The sub4 mutant seedlings exhibited improved survival rates and related physiological parameters, including relative electrolyte conductivity, chlorophyll content, malondialdehyde content, and antioxidant enzyme activity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes responsive to cold stress in the sub4 mutants were primarily associated with metabolism and signal transduction. Notably, the majority of cold-responsive genes were associated with cell wall functions, including those related to cell wall organization, chitin catabolic processes, and oxidoreductases. Our findings suggest that SUB4 negatively regulates the cold response in rice seedlings, possibly by modifying the properties of the cell wall.
PMID: 39747628
Foods , IF:4.35 , 2025 Jan , V14 (2) doi: 10.3390/foods14020241
Altitude-Driven Variations in Nutritional, Bioactive, and Mineral Profiles of Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.).
College of Food Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China.; Institute of Food and Nutrition Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100081, China.; Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.), a plant widely distributed in temperate and subtropical regions, is valued for its bioactive compounds and diverse health benefits. Known for its remarkable adaptability to various environmental conditions, hawthorn thrives across different altitudes, but these environmental factors, particularly altitude, significantly influence the accumulation of its bioactive substances. This study investigates the effects of altitude on hawthorn's nutritional, bioactive, and mineral profiles to provide insights into its cultivation and utilization. Through comprehensive analysis of 20 nutritional indicators from high- and low-altitude samples, including essential nutrients, bioactive compounds, and trace elements, multivariate analyses such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) revealed clear altitude-driven clustering. While primary nutritional components like dietary fiber, protein, and soluble solids exhibited stability across different altitudes, low-altitude samples showed higher levels of hypericin, quercetin, and rutin, likely due to favorable light and temperature conditions. Conversely, high-altitude samples were enriched in calcium, reflecting adaptations to cold stress and structural needs, while phosphorus content was reduced under cooler conditions. Potassium, iron, zinc, selenium, and strontium levels remained stable, indicating robust metabolic regulation. These findings confirm the significant role of altitude in shaping hawthorn's bioactive and mineral profiles, providing essential guidance for altitude-specific cultivation practices and tailored processing strategies. By leveraging these insights, the functional and nutritional properties of hawthorn can be optimized, supporting its sustainable application in the food and health industries.
PMID: 39856908
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2025 Jan , V220 : P109541 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109541
How to survive mild winters: Cold acclimation, deacclimation, and reacclimation in winter wheat and barley.
Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Plant Genetics and Crop Breeding, Czech Agrifood Research Center, Drnovska 507, 161 06, Prague 6, Ruzyne, Czech Republic. Electronic address: kosova@vurv.cz.; Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Plant Genetics and Crop Breeding, Czech Agrifood Research Center, Drnovska 507, 161 06, Prague 6, Ruzyne, Czech Republic; Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic.; Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Plant Genetics and Crop Breeding, Czech Agrifood Research Center, Drnovska 507, 161 06, Prague 6, Ruzyne, Czech Republic.; Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Plant Genetics and Crop Breeding, Czech Agrifood Research Center, Drnovska 507, 161 06, Prague 6, Ruzyne, Czech Republic; Faculty of Forestry and Wood Science, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.
Cold acclimation and vernalization represent the major evolutionary adaptive responses to ensure winter survival of temperate plants. Due to climate change, mild winters can paradoxically worsen plant winter survival due to cold deacclimation induced by warm periods during winter. It seems that the ability of cold reacclimation in overwintering Triticeae cereals is limited, especially in vernalized plants. In the present review, the major factors determining cold acclimation (CA), deacclimation (DA) and reacclimation (RA) processes in winter-type Triticeae, namely wheat and barley, are discussed. Recent knowledge on cold sensing and signaling is briefly summarized. The impacts of chilling temperatures, photoperiod and light spectrum quality as the major environmental factors, and the roles of soluble proteins and sugars (carbohydrates) as well as cold stress memory molecular mechanisms as the major plant-based factors determining CA, DA, and RA processes are discussed. The roles of plant stress memory mechanisms and development processes, namely vernalization, in winter Triticeae reacclimation are elucidated. Recent findings about the role of O-glucose N-acetylation of target proteins during vernalization and their impacts on the expression of VRN1 gene and other target proteins resulting in cold-responsive modules reprogramming are presented.
PMID: 39862458
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2025 Jan , V220 : P109478 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109478
Genome-wide identification and characterization of the thioredoxin (TRX) gene family in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and a functional analysis of SlTRX2 under salt stress.
The Modern Facilities Horticultural Engineering Technology Center, Shenyang Agricultural University, 110866, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; The Key Laboratory of Protected Horticulture, Ministry of Education, 110866, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.; The Modern Facilities Horticultural Engineering Technology Center, Shenyang Agricultural University, 110866, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; The Key Laboratory of Protected Horticulture, Ministry of Education, 110866, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. Electronic address: yufengliu@syau.edu.cn.; The Modern Facilities Horticultural Engineering Technology Center, Shenyang Agricultural University, 110866, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; The Key Laboratory of Protected Horticulture, Ministry of Education, 110866, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. Electronic address: tianlaili@126.com.
Thioredoxin is a multifunctional acidic protein widely presented in organisms that regulates intracellular redox processes, participating in a series of biochemical reactions in cells to affect the growth and development of plants. Although the thioredoxin (TRX) gene family has been widespread recognized across various plant species, and the tomato genome has been sequenced for years now, of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) has remained largely uncharted in terms of identifying and unraveling the functional intricacies of is TRX genes. In this study, 53 SlTRX genes were identified, unevenly distributed across 11 of the 12 tomato chromosomes. These 53 SlTRX genes were categorized into 4 distinct subfamilies based on their evolutionary kinship and phylogenetic development. Expression profiling reveals that most of SlTRX genes exhibited distinct expression patterns across various tissues and developmental stages. In addition, the gene structure, conserved protein motifs and cis-elements of 53 SlTRX genes were analyzed simultaneously. In our rigorous in silico expression analysis, 8 SlTRX genes were meticulously selected for subsequent experiments. Subcellular localization indicated that these 8 SlTRX genes were localized in chloroplasts. Furthermore, these 8 SlTRX genes were responsive to abiotic stress (salt, drought and cold stress) under the qRT-PCR analysis, and their different expression patterns under diverse types of treatments indicated their possible roles in stress tolerance in tomato. Based on these results, SlTRX2, whose expression level continued to increase under salt stress, was selected for silencing to further investigate its function, and furthermore, silencing SlTRX2 inhibited plant growth and led to a significant reduction in photosynthesis under salt stress. Yeast two-hybrid and luciferase complementation imaging assays demonstrated that SlTRX2 may regulate tomato salt resistance by affecting related photosynthetic genes. Thus, our study establishes a valuable resource for further analysis on biological functions of SlTRX genes and will provide important insights in the mechanism of action under stress.
PMID: 39826344
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2025 Jan , V220 : P109479 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109479
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) growth and photosynthetic response to high and low temperature extremes.
Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia-Tifton Campus, 31793, Tifton, GA, USA. Electronic address: ved.parkash@uga.edu.; Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia-Tifton Campus, 31793, Tifton, GA, USA.; Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia-Tifton Campus, 31793, Tifton, GA, USA; Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics and Genomics, University of Georgia-Tifton Campus, 31793, Tifton, GA, USA.; College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, 30223, Griffin, GA, USA.
In some peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) producing regions, growth and photosynthesis-limiting low and high temperature extremes are common. Heat acclimation potential of photosynthesis and respiration is a coping mechanism that is species-dependent and should be further explored for peanut. The objectives of the current study are (1) to evaluate the response of photosynthesis, its component processes, and respiration to low and high temperatures, and (2) to determine the heat acclimation potential of photosynthesis and respiration during early vegetative growth of peanut. Peanut was exposed to four different growth temperature regimes: (1) optimum temperature (30/20 degrees C day/night), (2) low temperature (20/15 degrees C), (3) moderately high temperature (35/25 degrees C), and (4) a high temperature extreme (40/30 degrees C). Low temperature and both high temperatures caused substantial reductions in growth and net photosynthetic rate. Mesophyll conductance and RuBP regeneration co-limited net photosynthetic rate under low temperature. Rubisco carboxylation was the most negatively impacted biochemical processes by high temperatures; however, diffusional limitations were not evident under high temperature conditions. Photosynthesis did not acclimate to high temperatures, while respiration and photorespiration exhibited heat acclimation. The inability of photosynthesis to acclimate to high temperature is likely a major constraint to early season growth in peanut.
PMID: 39778375
Plant Physiol Biochem , IF:4.27 , 2025 Jan , V218 : P109320 doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.109320
Gene expression modules during the emergence stage of upland cotton under low-temperature stress and identification of the GhSPX9 cold-tolerance gene.
State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China.; State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China. Electronic address: wxx1991@126.com.; State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China. Electronic address: maxf_caas@163.com.
Cotton originates from tropical and subtropical regions, and low temperatures are one of the main stress factors restricting its growth, particularly during the seedling stage. However, the mechanism of cold resistance is complex, and the research on gene expression modules under low temperatures during the seedling emergence stage of cotton remains unexplored, and identified vital cold-tolerant genes remain scarce. Here, we revealed the dynamic changes of differentially expressed genes during seed germination under cold stress through transcriptome analysis, with 5140 genes stably differentiating across more than five time points, among which 2826 genes are up-regulated, and 2314 genes are down-regulated. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of transcriptome profiles revealed three major cold-responsive modules and identified 98 essential node genes potentially involved in cold response. Genome-wide association analysis further confirmed that the hub gene GhSPX9 is crucial for cold tolerance. Virus-induced gene silencing in cotton demonstrated that GhSPX9 is a positive regulator of cold tolerance in cotton, with interference in its expression significantly enhancing sensitivity to cold stress in germination and seedlings. These results can be applied to identify cold tolerance loci and genes in cotton, promoting research into cold tolerance mechanisms.
PMID: 39579718
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2025 Jan , V25 (1) : P81 doi: 10.1186/s12870-025-06079-8
Genome-wide identification, characterization and expression analysis of WRKY transcription factors under abiotic stresses in Carthamus tinctorius L.
Institute of Chinese Herbel Medicines, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou , Henan, 450002, China.; Henan Sesame Research Center, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou , Henan, 450002, China.; Provincial Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Traditional Chinese Medicine Resources, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China.; State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-Di Herbs, National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China, Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences , Beijng, 100700, China.; Institute of Chinese Herbel Medicines, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou , Henan, 450002, China. lhzh66666@163.com.; Henan Sesame Research Center, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou , Henan, 450002, China. lhzh66666@163.com.; Provincial Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Traditional Chinese Medicine Resources, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China. lhzh66666@163.com.
BACKGROUND: WRKY transcription factors constitute one of the largest families of plant transcriptional regulators, playing pivotal roles in plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, as well as in hormonal signaling and secondary metabolism regulation. However, a comprehensive analysis of the WRKY family in Carthamus tinctorius (safflower) is lacking. This study aims to identify and characterize WRKY genes in safflower to enhance understanding of their roles in stress responses and metabolic regulation. Safflower, valued for its ornamental, medicinal, and culinary uses, exhibits significant resilience to salt, alkali, and drought. By elucidating the functions and expression patterns of WRKY genes, we aim to enhance breeding strategies for improved stress tolerance and metabolic traits in crops. RESULTS: In this study, we identified 84 WRKY genes within the safflower genome, and classified them into three primary groups (Groups I, II, and III) based on molecular structure and phylogenetic relationships. Group II was further subdivided into five subgroups (II-a, II-b, II-c, II-d, and II-e). Gene structure, conserved domain, motif, cis-elements, and expression profiling were performed. Syntenic analysis revealed that there were 27 pairs of repetitive fragments. Expression profiles of CtWRKY genes were assessed across diverse tissues, colored cultivars, and abiotic stresses such as ABA, drought, and cold conditions. Several CtWRKY genes (e.g., CtWRKY44, CtWRKY63, CtWRKY65, CtWRKY70 and CtWRKY72) exhibited distinct expression patterns in response to cold stress and during different developmental stages. Additionally, CtWRKY13, CtWRKY69, CtWRKY29, CtWRKY56, and CtWRKY36 were upregulated across different flower colors. The expression patterns of CtWRKY48, CtWRKY58, and CtWRKY70 varied among safflower cultivars and flower colors. After exposure to drought stress, the expression levels of CtWRKY29 and CtWRKY58 were downregulated, while those of CtWRKY56 and CtWRKY62 were upregulated. CONCLUSION: This study identified 84 WRKY genes in Carthamus tinctorius and classified them into three groups, with detailed analyses of their structure, conserved domains, motifs, and expression profiles under various stresses. Notably, several WRKY genes such as CtWRKY44, CtWRKY63, and CtWRKY72 displayed significant expression changes under cold stress, while CtWRKY56 and CtWRKY62 were responsive to drought stress. These findings highlight the critical roles of specific WRKY genes in abiotic stress tolerance and developmental regulation in safflower.
PMID: 39838282
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2025 Jan , V25 (1) : P77 doi: 10.1186/s12870-025-06080-1
Foliar application of 24-epibrassinolide enhances leaf nicotine content under low temperature conditions during the mature stage of flue-cured tobacco by regulating cold stress tolerance.
College of Tobacco Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.; Postdoctoral Station of Crop Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.; Sanmenxia Branch of Henan Provincial Tobacco Corporation, Sanmenxia, 472000, China.; Luoyang Branch of Henan Provincial Tobacco Corporation, Luoyang, 471026, China.; China Tobacco Henan Industrial Co., Ltd, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.; College of Agronomy, State Key Laboratory of Wheat and Maize Crop Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China. xuelinzhang1998@163.com.; Luoyang Branch of Henan Provincial Tobacco Corporation, Luoyang, 471026, China. lilihua11yan@163.com.; College of Tobacco Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China. zhangxquan@henau.edu.cn.
BACKGROUND: Low temperatures disrupt nitrogen metabolism in tobacco, resulting in lower nicotine content in the leaves. 24-epibrassinolide (EBR) is a widely used plant growth regulator known for its roles in enhancing cold tolerance and nitrogen metabolism. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether EBR enhances leaf nicotine content under low temperature conditions during the mature stage of flue-cured tobacco. RESULTS: To investigate the effects of EBR on leaf nicotine content under low temperature conditions during the mature stage of 'Yunyan 87' flue-cured tobacco, four treatments (foliar spraying of 0, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 mg.L(- 1) EBR solutions) were performed by using a single-factor randomized complete block design. The result showed that foliar spraying of different concentrations of EBR notably improve the agronomic and economic traits of flue-cured tobacco to varying degrees, as well as increase the total nitrogen and nicotine content in the tobacco leaves. 0.2 mg.L(- 1) EBR treatment showed better results, with nicotine content in the middle and upper leaves after curing increasing by 11.11% and 19.90%, respectively, compared to CK. Compared to the single EBR, foliar spraying of EBR compound containing alpha-Cyclodextrin and Tween 80 prolongs the effect of EBR, promotes the growth and development of tobacco plants. Combining EBR with CaCl(2) and ZnSO(4).7H(2)O significantly enhances the cold resistance of tobacco plants. Furthermore, combining EBR with higher concentrations of KH(2)PO(4) is more effective in promoting the maturation and yellowing of the upper leaves than those with lower concentrations. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides new insights that foliar application of EBR enhances leaf nicotine content under low temperature conditions during the mature stage of flue-cured tobacco by regulating cold stress tolerance. The integration of EBR with alpha-Cyclodextrin, Tween 80, CaCl(2), ZnSO(4).7H(2)O and KH(2)PO(4) showcases a novel approach to extending the effectiveness of plant growth regulators and improving agricultural sustainability. Furthermore, these findings may be applicable to other cold-sensitive crops, offering broader benefits for improving resilience and productivity under low temperatures. However, the research focuses on two growth cycles, without investigating the long-term impact of EBR on soil health, crop sustainability, and ecosystem. And further research is needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of EBR on enhancing leaf nicotine content. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.
PMID: 39828684
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2025 Jan , V25 (1) : P75 doi: 10.1186/s12870-025-06083-y
Exogenous diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate alleviates the damage caused by low-temperature stress in Phaseolus vulgaris L. seedlings through photosynthetic and antioxidant systems.
College of Horticulture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China.; Institute of Agro-products Processing and Storage, Chengdu Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Chengdu, 611130, China.; College of Horticulture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China. tangyi@sicau.edu.cn.
BACKGROUND: Phaseolus vulgaris is a warm-season crop sensitive to low temperatures, which can adversely affect its growth, yield, and market value. Exogenous growth regulators, such as diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate (DA-6), have shown potential in alleviating stress caused by adverse environmental conditions. However, the effects that DA-6 has on P. vulgaris plants subjected to low-temperature stress are not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the impact DA-6 has on the growth, photosynthesis, antioxidant system, and gene expression in cold-tolerant (YJ009763) and cold-sensitive (Baibulao) P. vulgaris seedlings under low-temperature stress. RESULTS: To simulate low-temperature stress, P. vulgaris seedlings were exposed to 5 degrees C, and 25 mg/L DA-6 solution applied to their leaves. This study revealed that DA-6 significantly enhanced the growth and photosynthetic performance of P. vulgaris seedlings under low-temperature stress. Specifically, DA-6 increased chlorophyll content and photosynthetic rates, reducing stomatal limitation and enhancing carbon assimilation. It also improved the photosynthetic efficiency by boosting electron transport in the reaction center. The antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) were markedly increased following DA-6 treatment. After 24 h of low-temperature stress, the cold-tolerant seedlings showed a 68.95% increase in POD activity, whereas the cold-sensitive seedlings displayed a 160.63% increase in SOD activity and an 85.56% increase in CAT activity. In addition, DA-6 significantly reduced the production rate of superoxide anion radical generation, with a 25.24% reduction in cold-tolerant seedlings and a 49.38% reduction in cold-sensitive seedlings. Under low-temperature stress, exogenous DA-6 could upregulate the relative expression of antioxidant enzyme-related genes, such as PvSOD and PvAPX. DA-6 also promoted the expression of key antioxidant genes, including PvMDHAR and PvDHAR2, which accelerated the ascorbate-glutathione cycle and mitigated oxidative stress. CONCLUSION: Exogenous application of DA-6 effectively alleviates low-temperature stress in P. vulgaris by enhancing photosynthetic capacity and regulating the antioxidant defense system. Cold-tolerant varieties exhibited a stronger response to DA-6, demonstrating a greater ability to withstand cold stress. These findings suggest that DA-6 treatment could serve as a promising approach for improving the resilience of P. vulgaris to low temperatures.
PMID: 39825233
BMC Plant Biol , IF:4.215 , 2025 Jan , V25 (1) : P35 doi: 10.1186/s12870-024-05788-w
Genome-wide identification of CAMTA gene family in teak (Tectona grandis) and functional characterization of TgCAMTA1 and TgCAMTA3 in cold tolerance.
Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Guangzhou, 520521, China.; The Forestry Development Service Center of Ganzhou City, Ganzhou, 341000, China.; Guangdong Forest Resources Conservation Center, Guangzhou, 520521, China. fts1973@126.com.; Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Guangzhou, 520521, China. ritfhuanggh@caf.ac.cn.
BACKGROUND: Calmodulin-binding transcription activator (CAMTA) proteins play significant roles in signal transduction, growth and development, as well as abiotic stress responses, in plants. Understanding their involvement in the low-temperature stress response of teak is vital for revealing cold resistance mechanisms. RESULTS: Through bioinformatics analysis, the CAMTA gene family in teak was examined, and six CAMTA genes were identified in teak. The encoded proteins were predicted to be located in the nucleus and exhibited hydrophilic properties, with molecular weights ranging from 103.4 to 123.3 kDa and isoelectric points ranging from 5.49 to 7.55. On the basis of protein sequence homology, the CAMTA family could be divided into three subgroups. Domain and 3D structure analyses demonstrated that all the TgCAMTA proteins contained the typical CAMTA domain with the CaMBD binding domain, which was exposed on the surface. Expression analysis of different tissues revealed the expression of TgCAMTA genes in teak roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and branches. Furthermore, the promoter region contained various cis-acting elements related to light, hormone, and abiotic stress responses. After low-temperature stress treatment, different expression patterns of TgCAMTAs were observed in teak roots, stems, and leaves, with TgCAMTA1 showing the highest expression level in leaves compared with stems. Transgenic lines carrying the TgCAMTA1/3 promoter::GUS construct cold stress induction of TgCAMTA1/3 genes revealed the presence of multiple low-temperature responsive cis-acting elements in the TgCAMTA1/3 promoter region. Subcellular localization analysis indicated that these genes were functional predominantly in the nucleus. Compared with wild-type Arabidopsis, TgCAMTA1/3-overexpressing Arabidopsis presented increased tolerance to freezing stress, with increased expression of AtCOR genes. Moreover, under low-temperature conditions, TgCAMTA3-overexpressing Arabidopsis presented significantly elevated expression levels of genes related to the CBF signaling pathway, including AtCBF1/2/3. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings add significantly to the existing knowledge regarding cold stress tolerance and help elucidate cold response mechanisms in teak.
PMID: 39789434
Genes (Basel) , IF:4.096 , 2025 Jan , V16 (1) doi: 10.3390/genes16010066
The RAD6-like Ubiquitin Conjugase Gene OsUBC7 Has a Positive Role in the Early Cold Stress Tolerance Response of Rice.
Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Cold stress poses a significant threat to Asian rice cultivation, disrupting important physiological processes crucial for seedling establishment and overall plant growth. It is, thus, crucial to elucidate genetic pathways involved in cold stress tolerance response mechanisms. METHODS: We mapped OsUBC7, a Radiation-sensitive 6 (RAD6)-type homolog of rice, to a low-temperature seedling survivability (LTSS) QTL and used genomics, molecular genetics, and physiological assays to assess its role in plant resilience against low-temperature stress. RESULTS: OsUBC7 is cold responsive and has higher expression levels in cold-tolerant japonica than cold-sensitive indica. Overexpression of OsUBC7 enhances LTSS of indica and freezing tolerance of Arabidopsis, increases levels of soluble sugars and chlorophyll A, boosts leaf development after cold exposure, and increases leaf cell numbers and plants size, but it does not affect membrane stability after cold stress exposure. Additionally, OsUBC7 has a positive role for germinability in the presence of salt and for flowering and yield-related traits. The OsUBC7 protein physically interacts with the developmental stage-specific and histone-modifying E3 ligases OsRFPH2-12 and OsHUB1/2, respectively, and potential target genes such as cell cycle dependent kinases were identified. CONCLUSIONS: OsUBC7 might contribute to cold resilience by regulating sugar metabolism to provide energy for promoting cellular homeostasis restoration after cold stress exposure via new cell growth, particularly in leaf cells crucial for photosynthesis and metabolic activity, possibly by interacting with cell cycle regulating proteins. Overall, the present study suggests that OsUBC7 may be involved in plant development, reproduction, and stress adaptation, and contributes to a deeper understanding of rice plant cold stress tolerance response mechanisms. OsUBC7 may be a promising candidate for improving crop productivity and resilience to stressful environments.
PMID: 39858613
BMC Genomics , IF:3.969 , 2025 Jan , V26 (1) : P31 doi: 10.1186/s12864-025-11218-4
Ploidy levels influence cold tolerance of Cyclocarya paliurus: insight into the roles of WRKY genes.
College of Forestry and Grassland, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China.; Co-Innovation Center for the Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing, 210037, China.; College of Forestry and Grassland, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China. fangsz@njfu.edu.cn.; Co-Innovation Center for the Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing, 210037, China. fangsz@njfu.edu.cn.
Cold stress in winter is one of the most severe abiotic stresses on plant growth and flourishing, and the selection of cold tolerant genotypes is an important strategy to ensure the safety of plant growth and development. Cyclocarya paliurus, a diclinous and versatile tree species originally in subtropical regions, has been introduced and cultivated in the warm temperate zone of China to meet the increasing market demand for its leaf yield. However, information regarding its cold tolerance remains limited. Based on the ploidy identification of tested materials, an imitation experiment was conducted to investigate the variation in freezing injury index and expression of the CpaWRKY family members in diploid and tetraploid C. paliurus seedlings. The results indicated a significant difference in freezing injury index between diploids and tetraploids under the imitating temperature of southern warm temperate zone, with diploids showing better cold tolerance than the tetraploids. A total of 88 CpaWRKY genes were identified from the C. paliurus genome, and RNA-Seq results showed significant differences in WRKY gene expression in C. paliurus under cold stress. Correlation analysis between differentially expressed genes and freezing injury index suggested that CpaWRKY14, CpaWRKY26 and CpaWRKY86 play essential roles in the diploids to respond to cold stress. In contrast, the major genes involved in the cold stress response in tetraploids were CpaWRKY14, CpaWRKY60, CpaWRKY63 and CpaWRKY81. Moreover, CpaWRKY14 expression was considerably higher in diploids compared to tetraploids. The results from this study not only enhance our comprehension of the role of the CpaWRKY genes in cold stress, but also provide a foundation for the genetic improvement of C. paliurus.
PMID: 39806283
Plants (Basel) , IF:3.935 , 2025 Jan , V14 (1) doi: 10.3390/plants14010137
Potential of a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System with Multispectral and Thermal Sensors to Monitor Vineyard Characteristics for Precision Viticulture.
Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada.; AirTech UAV Solutions Inc., Inverary, ON K0H 1X0, Canada.
Grapevines are subjected to many physiological and environmental stresses that influence their vegetative and reproductive growth. Water stress, cold damage, and pathogen attacks are highly relevant stresses in many grape-growing regions. Precision viticulture can be used to determine and manage the spatial variation in grapevine health within a single vineyard block. Newer technologies such as remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPASs) with remote sensing capabilities can enhance the application of precision viticulture. The use of remote sensing for vineyard variation detection has been extensively investigated; however, there is still a dearth of literature regarding its potential for detecting key stresses such as winter hardiness, water status, and virus infection. The main objective of this research is to examine the performance of modern remote sensing technologies to determine if their application can enhance vineyard management by providing evidence-based stress detection. To accomplish the objective, remotely sensed data such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and thermal imaging from RPAS flights were measured from six commercial vineyards in Niagara, ON, along with the manual measurement of key viticultural data including vine water stress, cold stress, vine size, and virus titre. This study verified that the NDVI could be a useful metric to detect variation across vineyards for agriculturally important variables including vine size and soil moisture. The red-edge and near-infrared regions of the electromagnetic reflectance spectra could also have a potential application in detecting virus infection in vineyards.
PMID: 39795397
Gene , IF:3.688 , 2025 Mar , V941 : P149225 doi: 10.1016/j.gene.2025.149225
Utilization of natural alleles and haplotypes of Ctb1 for rice cold adaptability.
College of Agriculture, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China.; College of Agriculture, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China. Electronic address: liucitao@hunau.edu.cn.
Cold stress during the booting stage of rice (Oryza sativa) significantly reduces yields, particularly in temperate and high-altitude regions. This study investigates the Ctb1 gene, critical for booting-stage cold tolerance, to improve breeding of resilient rice varieties. Re-sequencing the Ctb1 promoter in 202 accessions identified six Insertions and/or deletions (InDels) and four Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), with an InDel at -1,302 bp significantly boosting Ctb1 expression and cold tolerance. Accessions carrying this InDel (Haplotype I) exhibited the highest tolerance. Near-isogenic lines (NIL-Ctb1(HapI)) introduced Haplotype I into the cold-sensitive Huazhan (HZ) variety, resulting in a 5.9-fold increase in Ctb1 expression, higher seedling survival, improved pollen fertility, a 64.2 % increase in seed setting rate, and a 12 g per plant yield boost under cold stress. These findings confirm the critical role of the -1,302 InDel in cold tolerance and establish NIL-Ctb1(HapI) as a valuable breeding tool for cold-resilient rice.
PMID: 39793938
Gene , IF:3.688 , 2025 Feb , V938 : P149161 doi: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.149161
Evaluation of zma-miR408 and its target genes function on maize (Zea mays) leaf growth response to cold stress by VIGS-based STTM approach.
Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Gebze Technical University, Kocaeli, Turkey.; Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Gebze Technical University, Kocaeli, Turkey. Electronic address: faydinoglu@gtu.edu.tr.
miR408 is a conserved plant miRNA family that is known to regulate genes involved in copper metabolism. However, the function of miR408 in maize leaf growth regulation under cold stress isn't defined. In this study, endogenous maize miR408 was transiently silenced by using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) combined with short tandem target mimic (STTM) approaches. To this end, STTM-miR408a/b was designed, synthesized, and applied to maize seedlings. Subsequently, STTM-miR408a/b (STTM) and mock-treated (M) seedlings were subjected to cold stress (C) and the growth response of the seedlings was monitored. Finally, STTM-miR408a/b-treatment successfully downregulated the expression of endogenous mir408a/b and upregulated their putative targets Basic Blue Protein (BBP) and Blue Copper Protein (BCP) antagonistically in the STTM and STTM_C groups compared to M and M_C groups. On the other hand, their putative target Laccase (LAC22) gene was upregulated in the STTM group compared to the M group, but there were no significant expression differences between the M_C and STTM_C groups. The elongation rate of the STTM-miR408a/b-treated second and third leaves was reduced by 10% and 19% resulting in 19% and 11% shortening, respectively. Furthermore, the activity of catalase (CAT) and glutathione reductase (GR) was decreased by 57% in STTM, M_C, and STTM_C, and 29% and 28% in the M_C and STTM_C groups and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) was increased by 15% in M_C and STTM_C groups, respectively. These findings illuminated the maize leaf growth response to cold via regulation of expression of miR408 and its target genes and antioxidant system.
PMID: 39674290
Gene , IF:3.688 , 2025 Mar , V941 : P149235 doi: 10.1016/j.gene.2025.149235
Brassica rapa receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase BrRLCK1 negatively regulates freezing tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis via the CBF pathway.
College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China; State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science, College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China. Electronic address: wangzew78@sina.cn.; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Adaptation and Molecular Design, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China.; College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China.; Academy of Plateau Sciences and Sustainability, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810016, China.; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.; Crop Research Institute, Gansu Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Lanzhou 730070, China.
Some winter rapeseed (Brassica rapa) varieties can endure extremely low temperatures (-20 degrees C to -32 degrees C). However, because of a lack of mutant resources, the molecular mechanisms underlying cold tolerance in B. rapa remain unclear. In this study, we identified a low-temperature-sensitive mutant receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase (RLCK), BrRLCK1, using the B. rapa--Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) full-length cDNA-overexpressing gene hunting system mutant library. BrRLCK1, localized to the plasma membrane and retained its localization under low temperatures. Phylogenetic analysis showed that BrRLCK1 is highly conserved across six widely cultivated Brassica species, but exhibits complexity due to genome hybridization and polyploidization. Notably, beta-glucuronidase activity and qRT-PCR analysis showed that B. rapa BrRLCK1 and its homologous gene BrRLCK2 were mainly expressed in the main root, shoot, and leaves, with their expression being activated by low temperatures. Transgenic Arabodipsis expressing BrRLCK1 and BrRLCK2 reduced freezing tolerance and promoted root elongation. These combined results indicated that low temperatures can activate the expression of BrRLCK1 and BrRLCK2, negatively regulating freezing tolerance via the C-repeat-binding factor (CBF) pathway.
PMID: 39798825
PLoS One , IF:3.24 , 2025 , V20 (1) : Pe0308162 doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308162
Exploring chilling stress and recovery dynamics in C4 perennial grass of Miscanthus sinensis.
Polish Academy of Sciences, Institute of Plant Genetics, Poznan, Poland.; Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States of America.
The increasing cultivation of perennial C4 grass known as Miscanthus spp. for biomass production holds promise as a sustainable source of renewable energy. Unlike the sterile triploid hybrid of M. x giganteus, which cannot reproduce through seeds, M. sinensis possesses attributes that could potentially address these limitations by effectively establishing itself through seed propagation. This study aimed to investigate how 18 genotypes of M. sinensis respond to chilling stress and subsequent recovery. Various traits were measured, including growth and biomass yield, the rate of leaf elongation, and a variety of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, as well as chlorophyll content estimated using the SPAD method. Principal Component Analysis revealed unique genotype responses to chilling stress, with distinct clusters emerging during the recovery phase. Strong, positive correlations were identified between biomass content and yield-related traits, particularly leaf length. Leaf growth analysis delineated two subsets of genotypes: those maintaining growth and those exhibiting significant reductions under chilling conditions. The Comprehensive Total Chill Stress Response Index (SRI) pinpointed highly tolerant genotypes such as Ms16, Ms14, and Ms9, while Ms12 showed relatively lower tolerance.
PMID: 39752603
Plant Biol (Stuttg) , IF:3.081 , 2025 Jan , V27 (1) : P92-101 doi: 10.1111/plb.13727
Metabolite analysis of peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch) branches in response to freezing stress.
Changli Research Institute of Fruit Trees, Hebei Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences, Hebei, China.
Cold resistance in fruit trees has a direct impact on food production and scientific studies. 'Donghe No.1' is an excellent cold-tolerant peach variety. Metabolomic changes under freezing stress were examined to understand the mechanisms of cold adaptation. The UPLC-MS/MS system was used to identify differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) in branches of 'Donghe No.1' under freezing stress for 12 h at -5 degrees C, -20 degrees C, -25 degrees C, or -30 degrees C. In total, 1096 metabolites and 196 DEMs were obtained at -5 degrees C vs -20 degrees C, -25 degrees C, and - 30 degrees C, while 179 DEMs and eight shared DEMs obtained at -5 degrees C vs -20 degrees C, -20 degrees C vs -25 degrees C, and -25 degrees C vs -30 degrees C. KEGG enrichment identified 196 DEMs associated with amino acid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and flavonoid biosynthesis under freezing stress. A metabolic network in 1-year-old peach branches under freezing stress is proposed. Moreover, these results enhance understanding of metabolite responses and mechanisms to freezing stress in peach and will help in future breeding of freezing-tolerant varieties and investigating tolerance mechanisms.
PMID: 39476336
GM Crops Food , IF:3.074 , 2025 Dec , V16 (1) : P28-45 doi: 10.1080/21645698.2024.2438421
ZmNF-YB10, a maize NF-Y transcription factor, positively regulates drought and salt stress response in Arabidopsis thaliana.
College of Agronomy, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.; Joint International Research Laboratory of Modern Agricultural Technology, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.
Maize (Zea mays L.) is a major food and feed crop and an important raw material for energy, chemicals, and livestock. The NF-Y family of transcription factors in maize plays a crucial role in the regulation of plant development and response to environmental stress. In this study, we successfully cloned and characterized the maize NF-Y transcription factor gene ZmNF-YB10. We used bioinformatics, quantitative fluorescence PCR, and other techniques to analyze the basic properties of the gene, its tissue expression specificity, and its role in response to drought, salt, and other stresses. The results indicated that the gene was 1209 base pairs (bp) in length, with a coding sequence (CDS) region of 618 bp, encoding a polypeptide composed of 205 amino acid residues. This polypeptide has a theoretical isoelectric point of 5.85 and features a conserved structural domain unique to the NF-Y family. Quantitative fluorescence PCR results demonstrated that the ZmNF-YB10 gene was differentially upregulated under drought and salt stress treatments but exhibited a negatively regulated expression pattern under alkali and cold stress treatments. Transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana subjected to drought and salt stress in soil showed greener leaves than wild-type A. thaliana. In addition, the overexpression lines showed reduced levels of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)), superoxide (O(2-)), and malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased activities of peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Western blot analysis revealed a distinct band at 21.8 kDa. Salt and drought tolerance analyses conducted in E. coli BL21 indicated a positive regulation. In yeast cells, ZmNF-YB10 exhibited a biological function that enhances salt and drought tolerance. Protein interactions were observed among the ZmNF-YB10, ZmNF-YC2, and ZmNF-YC4 genes. It is hypothesized that the ZmNF-YB10, ZmNF-YC2, and ZmNF-YC4 genes may play a role in the response to abiotic stresses, such as drought and salt tolerance, in maize.
PMID: 39718137
Plant Signal Behav , IF:2.247 , 2024 Dec , V19 (1) : P2389496 doi: 10.1080/15592324.2024.2389496
Requirement of two simultaneous environmental signals for activation of Arabidopsis ELIP2 promoter in response to high light, cold, and UV-B stresses.
The United Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.; Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.; Experimental Plant Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.; RIKEN CSRS, Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Japan.
Arabidopsis EARLY LIGH-INDUCIBLE PROTEIN 2 (ELIP2) is a chlorophyll- and carotenoid-binding protein and is involved in photoprotection under stress conditions. Because its expression is induced through high light, cold, or UV-B stressors, its mechanism of induction has been studied. It is known that a functional unit found in the promoter, which is composed of Element B and Element A, is required and sufficient for full activation by these stressors. In this study, the role of each element in the unit was analyzed by introducing weak mutations in each element as synthetic promoters in addition to intensive repeat constructs of each single element. The results suggest that a stressor like cold stress generates two parallel signals in plant cells, and they merge at the promoter region for the activation of ELIP2 expression, which constitutes an "AND" gate and has a potential to realize strong response with high specificity by an environmental trigger.
PMID: 39132719
Plant Signal Behav , IF:2.247 , 2024 Dec , V19 (1) : P2362518 doi: 10.1080/15592324.2024.2362518
Exploring cotton SFR2's conundrum in response to cold stress.
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA.; United States Department of Agriculture, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
Cotton is an important agricultural crop to many regions across the globe but is sensitive to low-temperature exposure. The activity of the enzyme SENSITIVE TO FREEZING 2 (SFR2) improves cold tolerance of plants and produces trigalactosylsyldiacylglycerol (TGDG), but its role in cold sensitive plants, such as cotton remains unknown. Recently, it was reported that cotton SFR2 produced very little TGDG under normal and cold conditions. Here, we investigate cotton SFR2 activation and TGDG production. Using multiple approaches in the native system and transformation into Arabidopsis thaliana, as well as heterologous yeast expression, we provide evidence that cotton SFR2 activates differently than previously found among other plant species. We conclude with the hypothesis that SFR2 in cotton is not activated in a similar manner regarding acidification or freezing like Arabidopsis and that other regions of SFR2 protein are critical for activation of the enzyme than previously reported.
PMID: 38836385
Plant Signal Behav , IF:2.247 , 2024 Dec , V19 (1) : P2318514 doi: 10.1080/15592324.2024.2318514
Insights on the enhancement of chilling tolerance in Rice through over-expression and knock-out studies of OsRBCS3.
Rice Research Institute, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jiamusi, China.; Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, China.
Chilling stress is an important environmental factor that affects rice (Oryza sativa L.) growth and yield, and the booting stage is the most sensitive stage of rice to chilling stress. In this study, we focused on OsRBCS3, a rice gene related to chilling tolerance at the booting stage, which encodes the key enzyme ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) small subunit in photosynthesis. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role and mechanism of OsRBCS3 in rice chilling tolerance at the booting stage. The expression levels of OsRBCS3 under chilling stress were compared in two japonica rice cultivars with different chilling tolerances: Kongyu131 (KY131) and Longjing11 (LJ11). A positive correlation was found between OsRBCS3 expression and chilling tolerance. Over-expression (OE) and knock-out (KO) lines of OsRBCS3 were constructed using over-expression and CRISPR/Cas9 technology, respectively, and their chilling tolerance was evaluated at the seedling and booting stages. The results showed that OE lines exhibited higher chilling tolerance than wild-type (WT) lines at both seedling and booting stages, while KO lines showed lower chilling tolerance than WT lines. Furthermore, the antioxidant enzyme activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and Rubisco activity of four rice lines under chilling stress were measured, and it was found that OE lines had stronger antioxidant and photosynthetic capacities, while KO lines had the opposite effects. This study validated that OsRBCS3 plays an important role in rice chilling tolerance at the booting stage, providing new molecular tools and a theoretical basis for rice chilling tolerance breeding.
PMID: 38375792
Mol Hortic , 2025 Jan , V5 (1) : P2 doi: 10.1186/s43897-024-00115-1
Transcriptional regulation of miR528-PPO module by miR156 targeted SPLs orchestrates chilling response in banana.
Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, Key Laboratory of South China Agricultural Plant Molecular Analysis and Genetic Improvement, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 510650, Guangzhou, China.; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou, 510650, China.; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.; School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, Key Laboratory of South China Agricultural Plant Molecular Analysis and Genetic Improvement, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 510650, Guangzhou, China. q-hxia@scbg.ac.cn.; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou, 510650, China. q-hxia@scbg.ac.cn.; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China. q-hxia@scbg.ac.cn.; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, Key Laboratory of South China Agricultural Plant Molecular Analysis and Genetic Improvement, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 510650, Guangzhou, China. zhuhong@scbg.ac.cn.; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou, 510650, China. zhuhong@scbg.ac.cn.; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China. zhuhong@scbg.ac.cn.
Banana is sensitive to cold stress and often suffers from chilling injury with browning peel and failure to normal ripening. We have previously reported that banana chilling injury is accompanied by a reduction of miR528 accumulation, alleviating the degradation of its target gene MaPPO and raising ROS levels that cause peel browning. Here, we further revealed that the miR528-MaPPO cold-responsive module was regulated by miR156-targeted SPL transcription factors, and the miR156c-MaSPL4 module was also responsive to cold stress in banana. Transient overexpression of miR156c resulted in a more severe chilling phenotype by decreasing the expression of MaSPL4 and miR528. Conversely, the browning was alleviated in STTM-miR156c silencing and OE-MaSPL4 samples. Furthermore, DNA affinity purification sequencing and MaSPL4-overexpressing transcriptome jointly revealed that MaSPL4 may mediate the transcription of genes related to lipid metabolism and antioxidation, in addition to the miR528-MaPPO module, demonstrating MaSPL4 as a master regulator in the fruit cold response network. In summary, our results suggest that the miR156c-MaSPL4 module can mediate the chilling response in banana by regulating the miR528-MaPPO module and multiple other pathways, which provides evidence for the crosstalk between TFs and miRNAs that can be used for the molecular breeding of fruit cold tolerance.
PMID: 39789620
Plant Commun , 2025 Jan : P101258 doi: 10.1016/j.xplc.2025.101258
Cold climate-driven convergent evolution among angiosperms.
State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University; Hangzhou 311300, China.; State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences; Beijing 100700, China; Evaluation and Research Center of Daodi Herbs of Jiangxi Province, Ganjiang New District, 330000, China.; State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences; Beijing 100700, China; Evaluation and Research Center of Daodi Herbs of Jiangxi Province, Ganjiang New District, 330000, China. Electronic address: yangchem2012@163.com.; State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University; Hangzhou 311300, China; Zhejiang International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Plant Germplasm Resources Conservation and Utilization, Zhejiang A&F University; Hangzhou 311300, China; Provincial Key Laboratory for Non-wood Forest and Quality Control and Utilization of Its Products, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China. Electronic address: yangchem2012@163.com.
Convergent and parallel evolution occur more frequently than previously thought. Here, we focus on the evolutionary adaptations of angiosperms to sub-zero temperatures. We begin by introducing the research history of convergent and parallel evolution, defining all independent similarities as convergent evolution. Our analysis reveals that frost zones (periodic or constant), covering 49.1% of Earth's land surface, host 137 angiosperm families with over 90% of their species thriving in these regions. On this context, we revisit the global biogeography and evolutionary trajectories of plant traits, such as herbaceous form and leaf deciduousness, which are likely evasion strategies for frost adaptation. At the physiological and molecular levels, many angiosperms have independently evolved cold-acclimation mechanisms through multiple pathways beyond the well-characterized CBF/DREB1 regulatory pathway. The convergent adaptations occur across various molecular levels, including amino acid substitutions and changes in gene duplication and expression within the same or similar functional pathways; however, identical amino acid changes are rare. Moreover, we highlight the prevalence of polyploidy in frost zones and occurrence of paleopolyploidization events during global cooling. These patterns suggest repeated evolution in cold climates. Finally, we discuss plant domestication, predict climate zone shifts due to global warming, and their effects on plant migration and in-situ adaptation. Overall, integrating ecological and molecular perspectives is essential for understanding and forecasting plant responses to climate change.
PMID: 39849842