Gene Expression and Identification in Ornamental Plants Under Stress Conditions

Dear Colleagues,

Ornamental plants play a vital role in urban ecosystems, cultural landscapes, and human well-being. However, escalating environmental challenges—including climate change-induced drought, soil salinization, and pathogen outbreaks—threaten their survival and aesthetic value. Concurrently, consumers and horticultural industries increasingly demand resilient, sustainable varieties that require minimal chemical inputs while maintaining visual appeal. Deciphering the genetic basis of stress adaptation is therefore pivotal for developing next-generation ornamental crops that balance ecological resilience and market competitiveness.

This Special Issue emphasizes molecular mechanisms and innovative technologies to address these dual demands. We seek studies that bridge gene discovery with practical applications, such as enhancing stress tolerance without compromising floral traits or fragrance. Topics of interest include (but are not limited to) the following:

Dynamic gene regulation: Genome-wide profiling of stress-responsive genes (e.g., transcription factors, epigenetic modifiers) under combined biotic/abiotic stresses;

Multiomics integration: Synergistic use of transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to map stress adaptation networks in ornamental species;

Precision gene editing: CRISPR/Cas9 applications to engineer stress-resistant cultivars (e.g., cold-tolerant roses, disease-resistant chrysanthemums);

Sustainability-driven solutions: Developing molecular markers for low-input breeding programs or urban greening initiatives.

We welcome original research, reviews, and methodological advances that explore these themes. Submissions highlighting consumer-centric traits (e.g., prolonged flowering under stress) or climate-smart breeding strategies are particularly encouraged. By consolidating cutting-edge research, this Special Issue aims to accelerate the translation of genetic insights into commercially viable and environmentally adaptive ornamental plants.

Dr. Qikui Wu
Dr. Yang Liu
Guest Editors

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• stress adaptation
• gene editing
• molecular breeding
• multiomics
• ornamental plant resilience