Plant Physiol. Biochem. [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Comparative analysis of the GRAS transcription factor family in oilseed and confectionery sunflower identifies HaGRAS19 as a regulator of salt stress responses.
Li Q, Gu Y, Chen D … +11 more , Chen Y, Lei Z, Huang Q, Miao H, Liu Y, Qiu J, Li X, Xie Q, Cai M, Chen T, Zhang J
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42190540 · Publisher ↗
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is a globally important oilseed crop known for its resilience to environmental stresses. GRAS transcription factors are pivotal regulators of plant development and stress responses. Howev...
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is a globally important oilseed crop known for its resilience to environmental stresses. GRAS transcription factors are pivotal regulators of plant development and stress responses. However, a comprehensive analysis of this family in the economically distinct oilseed and confectionery sunflowers is lacking. Here, we performed a genome-wide comparative analysis and identified 98 GRAS genes in both the oilseed and confectionery sunflower genomes. Phylogenetic analysis delineated a novel, sunflower-specific subfamily, FDSLD, defined by a unique conserved motif. Comparative genomics further revealed type-specific differences in gene composition. For instance, the oilseed sunflower harbors five DELLA genes, whereas the confectionery type contains four. Evolutionary rate analysis indicated that the GRAS family has undergone strong purifying selection, highlighting its functional conservation. Based on cis-regulatory element analysis, we profiled the expression of GRAS genes potentially involved in hormone and stress responses. Functional characterization through transient silencing assays demonstrated that HaGRAS19 is critical for salt stress adaptation. Specifically, it eliminates salt-induced oxidative damage by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and malondialdehyde (MDA) production. Mechanistically, we identified a HaGRAS19-HaSnRK2.2/2.4.3 regulatory module. HaGRAS19 directly binds to the promoters of HaSnRK2.2 and HaSnRK2.4.3. This binding activates ABA-dependent signaling pathways, supported by the quantitative regulation of downstream marker genes (HaABI2, HaEM6, and HaRD26). This study provides the first comprehensive comparative genomic resource for the sunflower GRAS family. Furthermore, the characterization of this novel regulatory module offers both fundamental insights into stress adaptation and promising targets for breeding resilient sunflower cultivars.
Altered cytokinin signaling drives plant drought resilience through lipid remodeling, nutrient homeostasis, cell wall reinforcement, and modulation of biotic stress-associated pathways.
Berková V, Berka M, Kuzmenko M … +9 more , Koukalová Š, Bílek O, Novák J, Kováč J, Ďurkovič J, Čičmanec P, Kopriva S, Brzobohatý B, Černý M
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42184618 · Publisher ↗
Cytokinin signaling regulates abiotic stress tolerance, and modulation of this pathway, including in arr signaling mutants, enhances stress resilience through multiple molecular and physiological mechanisms. Here, we sho...
Cytokinin signaling regulates abiotic stress tolerance, and modulation of this pathway, including in arr signaling mutants, enhances stress resilience through multiple molecular and physiological mechanisms. Here, we show that under moderate drought conditions, sextuple arr3,4,5,6,8,9 mutants maintained up to 50% greater rosette area than wild-type Col-0 with significantly improved growth trajectories. Integrative analysis of 4706 proteins and 18,008 transcripts, supported by complementary physiological and biochemical measurements, reveal coordinated adaptations linked to enhanced stress tolerance. These include extensive lipid remodeling with selective depletion of polyunsaturated membrane lipids, reinforced redox and protein-homeostasis networks, and improved acquisition of key nutrients (K, P, S, Fe), all contributing to better water balance and cellular stability under drought. Anatomical traits including constitutively reduced stomatal density and 3-fold elevated root lignin content further support decreased water loss and sustained hydraulic function. Cross-omics integration additionally uncovered strong activation of biotic-stress-associated pathways, particularly glucosinolate and jasmonate metabolism, suggesting that reconfigured defense signaling forms an integral part of the drought-adaptive program. Importantly, we identify both previously characterized and novel mechanisms linking cytokinin signaling to drought resilience, including age-dependent regulatory circuits revealed through young-to-old leaf ratio comparisons that recovered stress-tolerance genes absent in conventional analyses. Together, these findings establish cytokinin signaling as a central coordinator of developmental, physiological, and metabolic adjustments shaping plant drought tolerance and position our accelerated drought assay as a robust platform for resolving complex stress-adaptive strategies.
CsWRKY40-CsRAV1 module integrates auxin and brassinosteroid signaling to cooperatively regulate EGCG biosynthesis in tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.).
Tuo Y, Lu X, Song Q … +9 more , Tao F, Zhu Z, Liu Y, Tang J, Shi Y, Zhu Q, Zhang Y, Lin J, Hu Y
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42184617 · Publisher ↗
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a key secondary metabolite of tea sensory quality and health care function. Auxin and brassinosteroid are important signaling molecules involved in regulating plant secondary metaboli...
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a key secondary metabolite of tea sensory quality and health care function. Auxin and brassinosteroid are important signaling molecules involved in regulating plant secondary metabolism, but the mechanism by which they cooperatively regulate EGCG biosynthesis in tea plants remains unclear. In this study, tea leaves were treated with exogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and 24-epibrassinolide (BR), and metabolomic together with transcriptomic analyses were used to elucidate how hormone signaling and transcription factors regulate EGCG biosynthesis in tea plants. Compared with the control, combined IAA and BR treatment increased EGCG content in tea plants by 13.25%, indicating a marked enhancement of EGCG accumulation. Additional analysis suggested that CsSAUR and CsBRI1 may be associated with the expression changes of CsWRKY40 and CsRAV1 in response to auxin and brassinosteroid signaling. The results of antisense oligonucleotide (AsODN) inhibition and molecular docking suggested that CsWRKY40 and CsRAV1 may coordinately regulate the expression of the target gene CsPAL in response to auxin and brassinosteroid signals, thereby cooperatively promoting EGCG biosynthesis in tea plants. This study proposes a regulatory framework in which the CsWRKY40-CsRAV1 module may link auxin and brassinosteroid signaling with EGCG biosynthesis in tea plants, providing a new perspective for further investigation of the regulatory mechanisms underlying fresh leaf quality.
An oomycete effector that induces shade avoidance-like growth and suppresses plant defences targets the AUX/IAA protein IAA11.
Bogino MF, Lapegna Senz JM, Tamagnone N … +4 more , Kourdova LT, Romanowski A, Wirthmüller L, Fabro G
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42184616 · Publisher ↗
Filamentous pathogens, such as oomycetes, employ multiple strategies to suppress plant immunity, including manipulation of phytohormone signalling pathways. The effector HaRxL106 from the oomycete Hyaloperonospora arabid...
Filamentous pathogens, such as oomycetes, employ multiple strategies to suppress plant immunity, including manipulation of phytohormone signalling pathways. The effector HaRxL106 from the oomycete Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis (Hpa), whose expression in planta induces shade avoidance syndrome (SAS)-like growth, has previously been shown to interact with BIM1, a transcription factor involved in brassinosteroid signalling. Here, we present evidence that HaRxL106 interacts with another key host target, the AUX/IAA protein IAA11, a negative regulator of auxin responses. Our data suggest that HaRxL106 may impede the repressive function of IAA11, affecting auxin signalling, which in coordination with an enhanced brassinosteroid output suppresses plant immune responses. These findings provide insights into how pathogen effectors manipulate plant growth and immunity to facilitate infection.
BjuABI4 and BjuJAZ2 respond to ABA signals and antagonistically regulate flowering time in Brassica juncea.
Feng X, Zhai H, Zhang C … +7 more , Li J, Wang Z, Wei D, Wang S, Peng T, Zou J, Tang Q
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42184615 · Publisher ↗
Flowering time is a fundamental agronomic trait determining the adaptation and yield of Chinese mustard (Brassica juncea), an important industrial crop widely cultivated in southwestern China as the main raw material for...
Flowering time is a fundamental agronomic trait determining the adaptation and yield of Chinese mustard (Brassica juncea), an important industrial crop widely cultivated in southwestern China as the main raw material for the pickled vegetable processing industry. ABSCISIC ACID-INSENSITIVE 4 (ABI4) is a key component of abscisic acid (ABA) signaling involved in plant development and stress responses, yet how it mediates flowering time control in Brassica juncea remains largely unknown. Here, we identify BjuABI4 as a negative regulator of flowering that directly activates the floral repressor BjuFLC in Brassica juncea. Intriguingly, this activation is antagonized by BjuJAZ2, a core jasmonate signaling component, which physically interacts with BjuABI4 to attenuate its transcriptional activity and alleviate the ABA-induced delayed flowering phenotype. Conversely, BjuPIF3, a key light signaling regulator, cooperates with BjuABI4 to synergistically enhance BjuABI4 and BjuFLC expression and potentiate ABA signal transduction, further delaying flowering. Notably, ABA treatment strengthens the BjuPIF3-BjuABI4 interaction while weakening the BjuJAZ2-BjuABI4 association, creating a dynamic regulatory balance that fine-tunes BjuFLC expression. Functionally, this PIF3-ABI4-JAZ2 module also mediates drought stress adaptation by modulating flowering time under adverse conditions. Our findings delineate a regulatory framework of PIF3-ABI4-JAZ2 and its antagonistic mechanism in mediating flowering time of Brassica juncea, which holds great promise for breeding stress-tolerant industrial crops and enhancing the quality and yield stability of raw materials for vegetable processing.
Transplantation of rhizosphere microbiome from tomato enhances salinity stress tolerance in chilli and bell pepper.
Pradhan S, Nischay, Shivay YS … +1 more , Sharma S
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42184614 · Publisher ↗
Salinity stress adversely affects plant growth and development, leading to reduced quality and yield. Traditional approaches, including chemical amendments and bioinoculants, often show limited effectiveness under natura...
Salinity stress adversely affects plant growth and development, leading to reduced quality and yield. Traditional approaches, including chemical amendments and bioinoculants, often show limited effectiveness under natural conditions. To overcome these limitations, this study employed a top-down rhizosphere engineering approach through rhizosphere microbiome transplantation (RMT) to mitigate salinity stress. First, a salt stress-acclimatized microbiome was generated by repeated plant growth cycles (PGCs) through RMT by ramping up salinity levels along the PGCs in a salt-susceptible tomato cultivar. Then, the generated salt stress-acclimatized rhizosphere microbiome was transplanted to mitigate salinity stress in chilli and bell pepper. RMT effectively increased various plant growth parameters in both plant model systems under salinity stress (150 mM in chilli and 170 mM in bell pepper). In rhizosphere microbiome treated plants, there was a reduction in stress markers, viz., malondialdehyde and proline levels. Further, the K/Na ratio increased by 1.94- to 3.47- fold in plants with RMT + salt stress. In addition, the expression level of salt stress-responsive gene, SlHKT1;1, increased in RMT plants under salt stress in both chilli and bell pepper compared to only salt treated plants. Our study showed that salt stress-acclimatized RMT from tomato is an effective and sustainable strategy to enhance salinity tolerance in other plants of the Solanaceae family, under natural conditions.
Quantitative proteomics unravels root-specific response mechanisms and phytotoxicity of four typical UV filters in pakchoi (Brassica rapa L. ssp. chinensis).
Zhou C, Zhong X, Wang S … +5 more , Zou W, Sun J, Lin C, Yang Q, Li S
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42177884 · Publisher ↗
Common UV filters (OBZ, AVB, OCR, OMC) widely exist in the environment and organisms, raising global concerns about their ecological and physiological risks. However, the molecular response mechanisms of higher plants to...
Common UV filters (OBZ, AVB, OCR, OMC) widely exist in the environment and organisms, raising global concerns about their ecological and physiological risks. However, the molecular response mechanisms of higher plants to these emerging contaminants remain largely unexplored. To address this research gap, we herein employed quantitative proteomics to examine root-specific responses in pakchoi (Brassica rapa ssp. chinensis) following exposure to each of the four UV filters. Across all treatments, a total of 8656 proteins were quantified, with 632, 482, 251, and 393 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) identified under OBZ, AVB, OCR, and OMC exposure, respectively. These DEPs were primarily enriched in key metabolic pathways, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, glycolysis (EMP)-tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, respiratory electron transport chain, fatty acid metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis. All four UV filters induced pronounced oxidative stress in pakchoi roots, as indicated by elevated ROS levels and increased lipid peroxidation. Proteins involved in EMP (6-phosphofructokinase, pyruvate kinase) and the TCA cycle (isocitrate dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase) exhibited significant downregulation. In contrast, proteins associated with fatty acid metabolism (aldehyde dehydrogenase, long-chain fatty acid omega-monooxygenase, acyl-CoA oxidase and Delta3-Delta2-enoyl-CoA isomerase) were predominantly upregulated. These proteomic patterns suggest a potential alteration in EMP-TCA cycle, and lipid metabolic processes. Concurrently, proteins associated with antioxidant enzymes (glutathione S-transferases, peroxidases and catalases) were predominantly upregulated. These proteomic findings are consistent with the increased peroxidases and catalases enzyme activity observed at the physiological level. Collectively, these findings provide a comprehensive proteomic overview of pakchoi root responses to UV filter exposure and offer novel insights into the underlying mechanisms of phytotoxicity, and provide a reference for the breeding of crop resistant varieties to ensure agricultural productivity and food safety.
Integrated metabolites and transcripts profiling reveal biosynthetic basis and regulation of color formation in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) leaf.
Xu Z, Gu Y, Ma X … +5 more , Yan Y, Gao Y, Lin C, Luo P, Zhu B
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42177883 · Publisher ↗
Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a multi-year or annual vegetable crop of Solanaceae Capsicum genus. The previous research on pepper mainly focuses on pepper fruit and abiotic or biological stress of pepper. However, there...
Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a multi-year or annual vegetable crop of Solanaceae Capsicum genus. The previous research on pepper mainly focuses on pepper fruit and abiotic or biological stress of pepper. However, there are relatively few studies on the biological basis and regulatory mechanisms of the color changes in pepper leaves. This study revealed the mechanism of color changes in chili pepper leaves, providing new insights for further research on related metabolic pathways. A combined metabolome and transcriptome analyses of four different color pepper leaves was undertaken to study the color formation mechanism in pepper. A total of eighty flavonoids were identified in pepper leaves, flavones and flavonols were found significantly higher in white leaves, whereas anthocyanins were found most enriched in purple leaves. Through heat map, K-means, and KEGG enrichment analysis, the gene expression and regulatory patterns in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, chlorophyll biosynthesis and degradation pathway were analyzed. Based on the co-expression network diagram, transcription factor families such as MYB and bHLH that may be involved in regulating the formation of white and purple in pepper leaves were preliminarily screened. Transient overexpression experiments in tobacco indicated that capan00g003240 (CaMYB82) might regulate the biosynthetic pathway of flavonoids in pepper leaves by modulating the expression of structural genes. This result provides new insights for the regulation of pigments biosynthesis in pepper leaves.
Pyramiding resistance to bacterial grain rot and bacterial leaf blight in rice using novel CAPS/dCAPS markers.
Park JR, Park HS, Lee G … +8 more , Lee HS, Lee SY, Ha SK, Lee YJ, Kang K, Jin M, Choi SY, Suh JP
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42177882 · Publisher ↗
Bacterial grain rot (BGR), caused by Burkholderia glumae, is a major constraint in rice production, particularly under high temperature and humidity. However, effective molecular markers for BGR resistance remain to be d...
Bacterial grain rot (BGR), caused by Burkholderia glumae, is a major constraint in rice production, particularly under high temperature and humidity. However, effective molecular markers for BGR resistance remain to be developed. Thus, we aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with BGR resistance and develop molecular markers to facilitate marker-assisted selection (MAS). Kele (xa5, resistant to BGR) and IS592BB (Xa3, Xa21, susceptible to BGR), we constructed Kele/IS592BB recombinant inbred lines (KIRILs) to map QTLs associated with resistance to BGR. Based on the identified QTLs, we developed CAPS and dCAPS markers, which were subsequently validated in the Kele/IS592BB//IS592BB backcrossing inbred lines. Five QTLs were detected: qRBG(RDA)1 [logarithm of odds (LOD): 16.4, phenotypic variation explained (PVE): 37.0%] and qRBG(RDS)1 (LOD: 19.1, PVE: 44.4%) on chromosome 1; qRBG(RDS)3 (LOD: 4.2, PVE: 8.2%) on chromosome 3; and qRBG(RDA)6 (LOD: 3.5, PVE: 6.3%) and qRBG(RDS)6 (LOD: 4.7, PVE: 12.3%) on chromosome 6. Based on the flanking sequences of these loci, two cleaved amplified polymorphic sequences (CAPS) and four derived CAPS (dCAPS) markers were developed. Marker-assisted selection using these markers resulted in BGR-resistant lines with less than 30% infected grain ratio and lesion area. Among the selected lines, KIBIL84 (Kele/IS592BB//IS592BB backcross inbred line) exhibited strong resistance to BGR and harbored a pyramided gene combination (Xa3+xa5+Xa21) for resistance to bacterial leaf blight (BLB). Under BLB pressure, KIBIL84 showed reduced lesion length (1.2 cm) and lesion area (5.2%). In addition, it demonstrated improved aboveground growth under field conditions compared with its parental lines, suggesting a positive relationship with yield potential. These findings indicate that the developed markers are effective for screening BGR resistance and that KIBIL84 is a promising breeding material for improving resistance to multiple bacterial diseases in rice.
Methyl jasmonate modulates postharvest aroma formation in ginger through MYC2-mediated activation of ZoTPS14 transcription.
Wei W, Wei S, Tan Q … +6 more , Wu X, Liu D, Ren Y, Wei L, Zhou X, Liu Y
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42177881 · Publisher ↗
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is an important medicinal and culinary plant, whose characteristic aroma is primarily determined by sesquiterpenes. Terpene synthases (TPSs) are key enzymes responsible for terpene biosynthes...
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is an important medicinal and culinary plant, whose characteristic aroma is primarily determined by sesquiterpenes. Terpene synthases (TPSs) are key enzymes responsible for terpene biosynthesis, yet their genomic organization and regulatory mechanisms remain poorly understood in ginger. In this study, a genome-wide analysis identified 59 ZoTPS genes, which were classified into six subfamilies and unevenly distributed across 11 chromosomes. Promoter analysis revealed multiple hormone-responsive elements, including MeJA-related motifs. Transcriptomic analysis of postharvest ginger rhizomes treated with MeJA showed significant enrichment of terpene biosynthesis pathways and coordinated upregulation of several ZoTPS genes, among which ZoTPS14 exhibited the most significant induction (P < 0.001). Subcellular localization analysis indicated that ZoTPS14 is targeted to chloroplasts. Functional characterization demonstrated that ZoTPS14 acts as a sesquiterpene synthase, and its overexpression significantly enhanced the accumulation of major sesquiterpenes, including zingiberene, α-farnesene, β-sesquiphellandrene, and α-curcumene. Furthermore, yeast one-hybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), and dual-luciferase assays demonstrated that ZoMYC2 directly binds to and activates the ZoTPS14 promoter, revealing a regulatory link between jasmonic acid(JA) signaling and terpene biosynthesis. Collectively, these findings provide insights into the molecular basis of terpene biosynthesis in ginger and offer a theoretical foundation for improving aroma quality through genetic and postharvest regulation.
Growth-defence trade-offs revealed by metabolic shifts in maize root apex under salinity and water stress.
Jiménez Guaman OM, Matayoshi CL, Arán M … +2 more , Pena LB, Gallego SM
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42177880 · Publisher ↗
This study investigated the proteomic and soluble metabolite profiles of maize (Zea mays L.) root apices following 72 and 96 h of seedling exposure to 10 mM and 100 mM NaCl, as well as 16% (w/v) polyethylene glycol 6000...
This study investigated the proteomic and soluble metabolite profiles of maize (Zea mays L.) root apices following 72 and 96 h of seedling exposure to 10 mM and 100 mM NaCl, as well as 16% (w/v) polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG). The highest NaCl concentration and PEG significantly reduced root length, whereas salinity increased root width, and PEG decreased it compared with non-stressed controls. Stress conditions induced changes in peroxidase isoform patterns. Across all samples, 3357 unique proteins were identified in maize root apices. Gene ontology enrichment analysis of differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) at 96 versus 72 h under both salt and PEG treatments indicated redox metabolic adjustments. In both stress conditions, up-accumulated DAPs relative to controls were associated with the phenylpropanoid pathway, lignin precursor biosynthesis, cell wall-modifying proteins, and suberisation, consistent with observed reductions in aromatic amino acids. Salinity specifically upregulated the oxylipin biosynthetic process, lipid peroxide accumulation, and the glutamate catabolic process, resulting in increased GABA levels. Conversely, down-accumulated DAPs under salinity included enzymes involved in sterol biosynthesis, chaperones, chaperonins, and vacuolar V-type ATPase subunits. In water-stressed samples, nitrate assimilation, amino acid, and malate metabolism were among the most downregulated processes. While both salt and water stress similarly influenced apoplast-associated metabolic pathways, their distinct effects on downregulated processes in the apical zone may underlie their contrasting impacts on root width. These findings highlight cell wall remodelling as a central metabolic response, advancing our understanding of maize-specific sensitivity to salinity and drought stress.
Transcriptome and volatile analyses identify key genes involved in ester biosynthesis in durian (Durio zibethinus) during fruit ripening.
Hiraiwa N, Luengwilai K, Yamane H … +3 more , Sirikantaramas S, Pinsorn P, Tao R
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42176410 · Publisher ↗
Durian (Durio zibethinus), which is an important economic crop in Southeast Asia, is known for its distinct aroma combining sulfurous and fruity notes. Volatile esters are the main contributors to the sweet, fruity aroma...
Durian (Durio zibethinus), which is an important economic crop in Southeast Asia, is known for its distinct aroma combining sulfurous and fruity notes. Volatile esters are the main contributors to the sweet, fruity aroma of ripe durian fruit. Volatile ester contents in fruit are generally regulated by the activities of alcohol acyltransferase (AAT) and enzymes that metabolize amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates into aroma volatiles. However, the molecular regulation of ester biosynthesis in durian remains unexplored. In this study, we aimed to identify key durian genes involved in ester biosynthesis and investigate the association between their expression and volatile profiles. We analyzed the volatile profiles of 'Monthong' pulp samples from four ripening stages (unripe, midripe, ripe, and overripe), revealing the activation of ester production during fruit ripening. Additionally, a comparison of the volatile profiles of six durian cultivars at the ripe stage detected differences in ester contents among cultivars. We identified three pulp-specific AAT genes, of which DzAAT1 was strongly upregulated during ripening and its expression was correlated with ester content variation among cultivars. The distinct features of durian volatiles, especially the predominance of ethyl esters, are likely due to ethanolic fermentation under hypoxia-like ripening conditions. We identified two ripening-associated pyruvate decarboxylase genes (DzPDC1a/b) that are highly expressed in ripe durian pulp. Furthermore, we analyzed RNA-seq data of three durian cultivars, which showed distinct volatile profiles associated with ester biosynthesis based on partial least squares-discriminant analysis. An integrated volatile and transcriptome analysis indicated that differentially expressed genes in the ester biosynthesis pathway, including carboxylesterase, branched-chain amino acid aminotransferase, and methionine γ-lyase genes, were associated with cultivar-specific volatile profiles. The identification of key genes associated with ester biosynthesis provides a molecular foundation for improving postharvest durian fruit flavor quality and breeding new cultivars with optimized fruit flavors.
Integrated physiological, transcriptomic and widely targeted metabolomic analyses reveal the underlying mechanism of cold stress response in the panicle apical abortion line J876 derived from Oryza rufipogon.
Wu J, Liu J, Xu X … +7 more , Zhang D, Sohail A, Mao X, Wan J, Liu G, Lu C, Xu P
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42176409 · Publisher ↗
Cold stress is a major environmental factor that significantly limits rice yield. However, the coordinated systemic responses of rice leaves and roots to cold stress remain poorly understood. In this study, we developed...
Cold stress is a major environmental factor that significantly limits rice yield. However, the coordinated systemic responses of rice leaves and roots to cold stress remain poorly understood. In this study, we developed Oryza rufipogon introgression lines (ILs) using the recipient parent Dianjingyou 1 (DJY1). Among these lines, J876 exhibits panicle apical abortion and was selected to investigate cold tolerance at the seedling stage. Phenotypic analysis showed that J876 was significantly more sensitive to cold stress than DJY1. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we conducted integrated physiological, biochemical, transcriptomic, and widely targeted metabolomic analyses to compare cold stress responses between DJY1 and J876. Under cold treatment, J876 accumulated higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in both leaves and roots, while exhibiting lower oxidoreductase activity than DJY1. Furthermore, differentially expressed genes and metabolites were mainly involved in amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism. Integrative analyses revealed that flavonoid biosynthesis was specifically activated in leaves and galactose metabolism was uniquely modulated in roots under cold stress, highlighting their potentially coordinated roles in rice cold tolerance. These findings provide new insights into the regulation of cold-induced oxidative stress in rice and offer valuable guidance for breeding cold-tolerant rice varieties.
Biochemical characterization of purified apyrases in Arabidopsis thaliana.
Weeraratne G, Clark G, Brown KA … +1 more , Roux SJ
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42176408 · Publisher ↗
Apyrases (nucleoside triphosphate-diphosphohydrolases) are enzymes that regulate the concentration of NTP and NDP nucleotides in cells by removing their terminal phosphate. Two of the 7 apyrases in Arabidopsis, APY1 and...
Apyrases (nucleoside triphosphate-diphosphohydrolases) are enzymes that regulate the concentration of NTP and NDP nucleotides in cells by removing their terminal phosphate. Two of the 7 apyrases in Arabidopsis, APY1 and APY2, are 87% identical in primary structure and play important roles in regulating auxin transport and plant growth. To clarify how these apyrases function, this report confirms their localization in purified nuclei and characterizes their enzymatic properties. Immunolocalization and immunoblot assays using a polyclonal antibody (2556) raised to a 24-mer peptide unique to APY1 showed that this calmodulin-binding APY was highly expressed in nuclei purified from etiolated Arabidopsis seedlings, just as a previously characterized calmodulin-binding apyrase, psNTP9, is highly expressed in purified nuclei of etiolated pea seedlings. Crude nuclear extracts assayed by mass spectroscopy identified the presence of APY1. Because nuclei purified from seedlings expressing APY1-GFP and APY2-GFP both showed the GFP signal, both APY1 and APY2 were likely present in the final preparation of APY, which eluted as a 48 kDa monomer from a molecular sieve column. As estimated by silver-staining after its separation on SDS-PAGE, the purified APY was >85% pure. It had a specific activity toward ATP and ADP substrates similar to that of other apyrases purified from plant and animal sources, but did not hydrolyze AMP substrates. These results favor those of prior reports that APY1/2 are nucleoside triphosphate-diphosphohydrolases, but differ from those of an earlier report that found HA-tagged APY1 extracted from light-grown Arabidopsis tissue did not hydrolyze ATP.
Salt-tolerant growth-promoting bacterium Enterobacter asburiae LL-1 isolated from rhizosphere soil of severely saline-alkali regions: Functional analysis of its genome and growth-promoting effect on maize under salt stress.
Li W, Shang Z, Gai L … +3 more , Bi S, Zhang X, Wang Y
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42172773 · Publisher ↗
Enterobacter species are plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria with the potential to enhance crop tolerance to abiotic stresses, but the molecular and physiological mechanisms remain incompletely understood. In this study...
Enterobacter species are plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria with the potential to enhance crop tolerance to abiotic stresses, but the molecular and physiological mechanisms remain incompletely understood. In this study, a salt-tolerant bacterial strain, Enterobacter asburiae LL-1, was isolated from the rhizosphere of maize grown in severely saline-alkali soil. The strain exhibited multiple plant growth-promoting traits, including phosphorus solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and indole-3-acetic acid production, and showed exceptional salt tolerance (up to 1500 mM NaCl). Pot experiments demonstrated that LL-1 inoculation significantly alleviated salt-induced growth inhibition in maize, as evidenced by increased plant height, root length, root biomass, and leaf chlorophyll content. Furthermore, LL-1 inoculation reduced Na accumulation, enhanced K uptake, improved antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase and superoxide dismutase), and elevated proline levels, thereby mitigating oxidative damage. At the molecular level, LL-1 upregulated the expression of maize antioxidant enzyme genes (ZmSOD4, ZmCAT2, ZmAPX2) and salt tolerance genes (ZmNHX1, ZmNHX2, ZmDREB2A). Genome analysis identified multiple genes potentially involved in salt tolerance (such as nhaA, nhaB, maeN) and plant growth promotion. These results indicate that E. asburiae LL-1 enhances maize salt tolerance through coordinated effects on ion homeostasis, antioxidant capacity, photosynthesis, and stress-responsive gene expression. This study provides a promising microbial resource and correlative evidence for further mechanistic research on PGPR-mediated salt tolerance in crops.
Size-dependent succession of microbial communities in the decaying heartwood of Populus euphratica and its association with tree architecture in the lower Tarim River, Northwest China.
Li X, Yao S, Aishan T
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42172772 · Publisher ↗
Elucidating microbial community succession in Populus euphratica trunks is crucial for understanding wood decay processes and maintaining tree mechanical stability in desert riparian forests. This study investigated natu...
Elucidating microbial community succession in Populus euphratica trunks is crucial for understanding wood decay processes and maintaining tree mechanical stability in desert riparian forests. This study investigated naturally decaying P. euphratica across four diameter at breast height (DBH) classes (D:15-25 cm, D:25-35 cm, D:35-45 cm, D:>45 cm) in the lower Tarim River, with a total of 12 sample trees (n = 12). Using 16S rRNA and ITS high-throughput sequencing, we analyzed heartwood bacterial and fungal communities, focusing on size-dependent successional dynamics and correlations with tree architectural traits. Results revealed a systematic shift in community composition across DBH classes, suggesting a successional trajectory associated with tree size increase. The D class (25-35 cm) appeared to be a transitional phase for community shifts, with the highest bacterial biomarker richness, indicating intense microbial turnover. Fungi were dominant in the community (average relative abundance of 67.2%) and occupied central network positions (modularity = 0.45), while bacteria played synergistic roles. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in bacterial community structure between D and D/D (ANOSIM, p < 0.05), and fungal diversity (Shannon index) was significantly lower in D than in other classes (p < 0.05). Association analyses indicated that functional microbes are closely linked to tree architectural differentiation. Taxa positively correlated with tree size indices (DBH, crown spread) were predominantly potential pathogens (e.g., Ralstonia and Fusarium), suggesting an accumulated pathogen load as tree size increases. Conversely, functional bacteria associated with architectural maintenance (e.g., Azoarcus) showed distinct patterns. Ecologically, these findings suggest that heartwood microbial succession is not random but follows a predictable size-dependent trajectory, and that microbial community structure may serve as a potential bioindicator for assessing tree health and mechanical stability in desert riparian forests. This study provides evidence that size-dependent microbial succession in P. euphratica heartwood, highlighting functional microbial roles in shaping tree architecture and providing a foundation for health management of desert riparian forests.
The comprehensive detection of mRNA, lncRNA, circRNA, and miRNA provides novel insights into the regulation of monoterpene biosynthesis in table grape.
Wang H, Yan A, Wang X … +5 more , Liu Z, Ren J, Lu H, Xu H, Sun L
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42167011 · Publisher ↗
Monoterpenes are pivotal aroma compounds in Muscat-type grapes, endowing them with distinct floral and fruity notes, yet the biosynthesis and regulatory mechanisms of monoterpenes remain not fully understood. 'Ruiduxiang...
Monoterpenes are pivotal aroma compounds in Muscat-type grapes, endowing them with distinct floral and fruity notes, yet the biosynthesis and regulatory mechanisms of monoterpenes remain not fully understood. 'Ruiduxiangyu', a new typical Muscat-type table grape cultivar, was used in this study. Comprehensive metabolic profiling and whole transcriptome sequencing were performed across various developmental stages and different tissue samples of 'Ruiduxiangyu' grapes. Metabolite results showed monoterpene concentration and profiles varied with berry developmental stages and tissue types, with significantly higher levels in skins than flesh. Whole transcriptome analysis identified 26 DEmRNAs in MEP and MVA pathways, 24 DElncRNAs, 2 DEcircRNAs, and 1 DEmiRNA and some key TFs linked with monoterpene biosynthesis in grape berries, respectively. CeRNA network analysis revealed key regulatory modules: vv-miR156f-SPL13A correlated with monoterpene accumulation during development, while vv-miR162-CYP704C1 may explain tissue-specific profile differences. These findings deepen understanding of monoterpene regulatory mechanisms and offer insights for enhancing grape aroma quality.
Transcriptional activation of PbrFLOT1 by PbrWRKY33 contributes to pear resistance against Botryosphaeria dothidea.
Sun F, Feng Y, Wang F … +7 more , Li D, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Zhang S, Tao S, Sun X
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42167010 · Publisher ↗
Pear ring rot, caused by the necrotrophic fungus Botryosphaeria dothidea, is a major disease affecting pear production and fruit quality. Plasma membrane nanodomains are important for immune signaling, but the roles of s...
Pear ring rot, caused by the necrotrophic fungus Botryosphaeria dothidea, is a major disease affecting pear production and fruit quality. Plasma membrane nanodomains are important for immune signaling, but the roles of stomatin-prohibitin-flotillin-HflK/C (SPFH) proteins in pear disease resistance remain largely unknown. In this study, 18 PbrSPFH genes were identified in 'Dangshan Suli' pear and classified into five subfamilies: flotillin, prohibitin, stomatin-like, hypersensitive-induced reaction, and erlin. Analyses of chromosomal distribution, gene structure, conserved motifs, and collinearity indicated duplication-driven expansion of the family. Promoter analysis revealed abundant hormone- and stress-responsive cis-elements, especially in PbrFLOT and PbrHIR genes. Following B. dothidea inoculation, most PbrHIR genes were rapidly induced, whereas PbrFLOT1 and PbrFLOT3 showed delayed but pronounced upregulation. Subcellular localization showed that PbrFLOT1 was mainly localized to the plasma membrane, while PbrFLOT3 was detected in the plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and nucleus. Silencing of PbrFLOT1 or PbrFLOT3 increased lesion size in pear seedlings, whereas overexpression in pear calli enhanced resistance to B. dothidea. At 4 dpi, PbrFLOT1/3 silencing reduced the expression of several redox- and defense-related genes, particularly PbrPR1, whereas infected overexpression calli showed largely opposite transcriptional patterns. In addition, PbrWRKY33 directly bound the PbrFLOT1 promoter and activated its transcription, and silencing of PbrWRKY33 reduced pear resistance and suppressed PbrFLOT1 expression. These findings identify PbrFLOT1 and PbrFLOT3 as positive regulators of pear resistance to B. dothidea and demonstrate that PbrWRKY33 directly activates PbrFLOT1 transcription.
Functional characterization of TaSnRK2.8-5A reveals the central role of its signal module in enhancing drought tolerance through coordinated molecular and physiological response of wheat.
Liu J, Yu Z, Hou X … +6 more , Wang J, Fu X, Zhang H, Wang H, Guo C, Xiao K
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42160837 · Publisher ↗
Sucrose non-fermenting-1 (SNF1)-related protein kinase 2 (SnRK2) members are central regulators in the abscisic acid signaling pathway and orchestrate plant drought stress responses. However, the functional diversity and...
Sucrose non-fermenting-1 (SNF1)-related protein kinase 2 (SnRK2) members are central regulators in the abscisic acid signaling pathway and orchestrate plant drought stress responses. However, the functional diversity and mechanistic specificity among SnRK2 family members in wheat remain underexplored. This study reports TaSnRK2.8-5A, a nucleus-localized SnRK2 member in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), whose transcription level was significantly upregulated under 12-h drought stress, with a 2.6-fold increase in leaves and 3.6-fold increase in roots compared with control conditions (P < 0.05), indicating its prominent role in stress signaling. Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed that TaSnRK2.8-5A interacts with TaPP2C53-1A and TabZIP23-6D, forming a novel ABA signaling module that distinguishes it from previously characterized SnRK2 members in wheat, which typically function through distinct or broader partners. Overexpression of TaSnRK2.8-5A or TabZIP23-6D alleviated drought-induced growth inhibition, whereas TaPP2C53-1A acted as a negative regulator. Under drought treatment, TaSnRK2.8-5A-OE, TabZIP23-6D-OE, and TaPP2C53-1A-KO lines displayed plant biomass increases of 32-42% compared with wild type plants. Physiological analyses demonstrated that these transgenic lines showed improved photosynthetic efficiency (net photosynthetic rate increased by 41%), enhanced osmolyte accumulation (proline increased by 14-25%; soluble sugars increased by 20-40%; soluble protein increased by 12-25%), and maintained ROS homeostasis (MDA reduced by 10-19%; SOD activity increased by 16.7-22%) under drought conditions (P < 0.05). These results indicated that the TaPP2C53-1A/TaSnRK2.8-5A/TabZIP23-6D module integrates multiple physiological processes to coordinately enhance drought tolerance in wheat. Mechanistically, yeast one-hybrid and transcriptional activation assays indicated that TabZIP23-6D binds to the promoters of TaPIN1, TaP5CS4, and TaPOD2, thereby activating their expression under drought stress. This regulation enhances root activity, proline biosynthesis, and ROS scavenging, respectively. Through the screening of a large wheat germplasm collection, the specific haplotype TaSnRK2.8-5A-Hap1 was identified as conferring superior drought tolerance. Collectively, these findings establish that a signal module centered on TaSnRK2.8-5A enhances the response of wheat to drought stress in coordination with physiological processes, providing both mechanistic insights into SnRK2-mediated drought adaptation and valuable gene resources for molecular breeding of drought-tolerant wheat cultivars.
Functional characterization identified five sesquiterpene synthases that confer terpenoid diversity in Nardostachys jatamansi.
Zhang S, Ji-Ka X, Feng M … +11 more , He B, Li M, Liu Y, Bao X, Zhang Z, Qing X, Chen C, Sheng H, Li J, Yan X, Yang Z
Plant Physiol Biochem · 2026 Jun · PMID 42160836 · Publisher ↗
Terpenoids constitute the principal bioactive and aromatic components of Nardostachys jatamansi, an edible spice plant native to the alpine Himalayas. However, their biosynthetic pathways in this species remain largely u...
Terpenoids constitute the principal bioactive and aromatic components of Nardostachys jatamansi, an edible spice plant native to the alpine Himalayas. However, their biosynthetic pathways in this species remain largely unexplored. Through analysis of an updated reference transcriptome and genome, we successfully amplified 16 full-length terpene synthase (TPS) genes in N. jatamansi. Subsequent biochemical characterization of the encoded enzymes revealed that five TPSs are functionally active in sesquiterpene biosynthesis. Specifically, NjTPS2 catalyzed the formation of fourteen sesquiterpenes: aciphyllene, cyclohexane, aristolene, (+)-calarene, α-panasinsene, γ-maaliene, aromadendrene, alloaromadendrene, selina-5,11-diene, valerena-4,7(11)-diene, β-caryophyllene, β-guaiene, (+)-ledene, and β-cyclogermacrane. NjTPS3 produced two distinct sesquiterpenes, γ-selinene and valerena-4,7(11)-diene. NjTPS6 generated α-gurjunene, β-maaliene, and β-cyclogermacrane. NjTPS7 synthesized a suite of sesquiterpenoids, including β-patchoulene, α-guaiene, α-patchoulene, γ-gurjunene, humulene, Δ-guaiene, α-selinine, (-)-7-epi-α-selinene, patchouli alcohol, and pogostole. NjTPS11 was characterized as a β-bergamotene synthase. In addition, NjTPS10 utilized geranyl diphosphate (GPP) to produce the monoterpene alcohol linalool. Tissue-specific gene expression analysis revealed that, with the exception of NjTPS11, which was highly expressed in leaves, the remaining four genes were all highly expressed in roots and rhizomes. This expression profile aligns with the predominant accumulation of sesquiterpenes in the underground parts of N. jatamansi, providing molecular insight into the spatial regulation of its characteristic aroma and bioactive compound synthesis.
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