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21 pages, 9763 KB

Open AccessArticle

Chlorophyll Fluorescence-Based High-Throughput Phenotyping Reveals Mechanisms and Enables Rapid Screening of Desiccation-Tolerant Wild Tomato Species

by Sushil S. Changan, Pratapsingh S. Khapte, Priti S. Rathod, Sangram B. Chavan, Vijaysinha D. Kakade, Amrut S. Morade, Yogesh P. Khade, S. Gurumurthy, Chetan S. Sonawane, Ajay Kumar Singh and Kotha Sammi Reddy

Plants 2026, 15(9), 1339; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15091339 - 28 Apr 2026

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Abstract

Desiccation tolerance is a critical adaptive trait that enables plants to survive extreme water loss, yet its physiological basis in tomato and its wild relatives remains poorly understood. In this study, chlorophyll a fluorescence imaging was used as a reliable tool to evaluate [...] Read more.

Desiccation tolerance is a critical adaptive trait that enables plants to survive extreme water loss, yet its physiological basis in tomato and its wild relatives remains poorly understood. In this study, chlorophyll a fluorescence imaging was used as a reliable tool to evaluate photosystem II (PSII) response to progressive desiccation. The analysis was conducted in cultivated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and five wild relatives (Solanum chilense, Solanum habrochaites, Solanum peruvianum, Solanum pimpinellifolium, and Solanum pennellii). Detached leaves were subjected to controlled desiccation for up to 50 h. During this period, tissue moisture content (TMC), relative water content (RWC), PSII photochemical efficiency [Fv/Fm; maximum quantum yield (QY_max)], minimal fluorescence (F0), maximal fluorescence (Fm), and variable fluorescence (Fv) were monitored to assess changes in photosynthetic performance. Desiccation caused a significant, moisture-dependent decline in PSII efficiency across all species, with QY_max showing a strong linear relationship with RWC (R² = 0.80–0.90). Interspecific variation was evident as S. chilense, S. habrochaites, S. peruvianum, and S. pimpinellifolium exhibited rapid PSII impairment, while S. lycopersicum showed moderate tolerance. In contrast, S. pennellii maintained higher PSII stability, with 50% loss of efficiency occurring only at lower RWC (30–35%). Overall, chlorophyll fluorescence imaging effectively captured functional diversity in desiccation tolerance, highlighting S. pennellii as a valuable genetic resource for improving drought resilience in tomato. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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21 pages, 6566 KB

Open AccessArticle

GmRWP-RK1 Enhances Salt Tolerance by Modulating Antioxidant Defense, Ion Homeostasis and Stress-Responsive Pathways in Soybean

by Lu Liu, Qianyue Bai, Min Xu, Qi Zhang, Yuhong Gai, Naveed Ahmad, Piwu Wang, Zhuo Zhang, Nooral Amin and Wei Jian

Plants 2026, 15(6), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15060912 - 16 Mar 2026

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Abstract

Soil salinity is rapidly spreading across agricultural regions and has become one of the most critical constraints on soybean growth, yield, and sustainable production. Despite the central role of transcription factors (TFs) in coordinating plant responses to abiotic stresses, the molecular mechanisms by [...] Read more.

Soil salinity is rapidly spreading across agricultural regions and has become one of the most critical constraints on soybean growth, yield, and sustainable production. Despite the central role of transcription factors (TFs) in coordinating plant responses to abiotic stresses, the molecular mechanisms by which RWP-RK domain-containing TFs regulate salt-tolerant responses in soybean remain poorly understood. Our previous genome-wide characterization identified 28 RWP-RK TFs in soybean exhibiting abiotic stress-responsive expression, yet their biological functions under salt stress have not been experimentally validated. Here, we investigated a 981-bp GmRWP-RK1 encoding region and demonstrated its regulatory role in enhancing salt tolerance by activating antioxidant defence, Na⁺/K⁺ homeostasis, and transcriptional control of salt-responsive genes using a cross-species overexpression approach. The two Arabidopsis lines (OE1 & OE4) overexpressing GmRWP-RK1 demonstrated significantly improved salt tolerance, as evidenced by ~18% greater survival and enhanced germination compared to non-transgenic plants under salinity stress. This phenotype was supported by stronger antioxidant protection, as indicated by elevated proline levels, reduced MDA accumulation, and increased SOD and POD activities. At the molecular level, the transgenic lines also showed up-regulated expression of key stress-responsive genes (AtACS10, AtSUMO1, AtGBF1), confirming the regulatory influence of GmRWP-RK1 on salt-adaptation pathways. Consistent with the Arabidopsis results, GmRWP-RK1 overexpression in soybean hairy roots also led to improved salt-stress tolerance by accumulating significantly reduced ROS contents (27.38% lower H₂O₂ and 33.98% lower O₂⁻), and maintained a balanced Na⁺/K⁺ ratio compared to that of non-transgenic hairy roots under salinity. Furthermore, GmRWP-RK1-overexpressing transgenic soybean hairy roots showed increased expression of stress-responsive genes, especially GmATG-5, GmOLP-1, and GmOLP-2. Overall, our results support a possible role of GmRWP-RK1 in soybean salt tolerance and provide a foundation for future functional and breeding-oriented studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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19 pages, 6093 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification of the SWEET Gene Family and Functional Analysis of LpSWEET13 in Perennial Ryegrass Under Drought Stress

by Yuxi Miu, Shuyin Pan, Yingying Mao, Miao Chen, Yumiao Xie, Lu Zhang and Shuhan Yu

Plants 2026, 15(4), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15040526 - 7 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 528

Abstract

SWEETs (Sugars Will Eventually be Exported Transporters) represent a distinct category of proteins responsible for mediating intracellular sugar transport. These transporters are involved in sugar allocation processes, contribute to plant growth and development, and mediate adaptive responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. Despite [...] Read more.

SWEETs (Sugars Will Eventually be Exported Transporters) represent a distinct category of proteins responsible for mediating intracellular sugar transport. These transporters are involved in sugar allocation processes, contribute to plant growth and development, and mediate adaptive responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. Despite extensive research on SWEET genes in many plant species, their functions in perennial ryegrass have not been clearly characterized. In this study, genome-wide bioinformatic analyses were conducted to identify SWEET family members in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne; LpSWEETs) and to explore their potential involvement in drought stress responses. Twenty-three LpSWEET genes were identified based on whole-genome sequence data, and phylogenetic inference indicated that these genes clustered into four clades. Comprehensive analyses of gene organization, conserved motifs, cis-regulatory elements, and protein features demonstrated strong evolutionary conservation across LpSWEET members, while quantitative real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that LpSWEET13 exhibited drought-responsive expression, and subcellular localization analysis showed that LpSWEET13 was localized in the plasma membrane. Under drought stress, transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana lines overexpressing LpSWEET13 presented a substantially higher survival rate than their corresponding wild-type controls. In addition, ectopic expression of LpSWEET13 increased expression levels of AtP5CS1, AtRD22, AtRD29A, and AtRD29B expression. These findings offer insights into the cladistic characteristics of the LpSWEET family and establish a useful framework for subsequent functional studies of LpSWEET genes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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15 pages, 3734 KB

Open AccessArticle

Suaeda salsa SsDHN Gene Enhances Drought Tolerance in Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum)

by Hui Ma, Zhixin Song, Jiahui Wu, Yuou Song, Jingyi Zhang, Ming Zhong, Jingwei Lin, Shuisen Chen and Hui Li

Plants 2026, 15(3), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030443 - 31 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Drought stress critically constrains plant development and morphogenesis, representing a substantial challenge to crop production systems. Dehydrins (DHNs), belonging to the late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) protein superfamily, play crucial roles in plant adaptation to environmental stress conditions. Nevertheless, the capacity of Suaeda salsa [...] Read more.

Drought stress critically constrains plant development and morphogenesis, representing a substantial challenge to crop production systems. Dehydrins (DHNs), belonging to the late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) protein superfamily, play crucial roles in plant adaptation to environmental stress conditions. Nevertheless, the capacity of Suaeda salsa SsDHN protein to confer drought resistance has not been adequately investigated. In the present study, transgenic tobacco lines with constitutive SsDHN expression (SsDHN-OE) were employed to examine its influence on seedling development under water-limited conditions. Results indicated that constitutive SsDHN expression enhanced biomass accumulation, foliar expansion, root elongation, and root surface dimensions in water-stressed seedlings. Moreover, transformed lines demonstrated elevated proline (Pro) accumulation and abscisic acid (ABA) content, augmented antioxidant enzyme activity, and intensified stomatal regulation under stress conditions. Conversely, photoinhibition intensity, chloroplast structural degradation, malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation, electrolyte leakage, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and superoxide radical (O₂⁻) concentrations were diminished. Furthermore, transcript abundance of stress-responsive genes—encompassing NtNCED3, NtSnRK2.2, NtRD26, NtLEA5, NtPOD, NtSOD, NtCAT, and NtAPX1—was markedly increased in SsDHN-OE lines experiencing drought stress. Taken together, these findings establish that SsDHN functions as a positive regulator of drought resilience in plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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22 pages, 5454 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification and Functional Analysis of DNA Methylation-Related Genes in Sophora tonkinensis Under Cadmium and Drought Stress

by Fan Wei, Shuangshuang Qin, Linxuan Li, Zhu Qiao, Danfeng Tang, Guili Wei, Yang Lin and Ying Liang

Plants 2026, 15(3), 396; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030396 - 28 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Sophora tonkinensis is a valuable medicinal plant whose cultivation is constrained by drought and cadmium (Cd) contamination. DNA methylation, mediated by cytosine-5 DNA methyltransferases (C5-MTases) and DNA demethylases (dMTases), contributes to plant stress response; however, these gene families have remained uncharacterized in S. [...] Read more.

Sophora tonkinensis is a valuable medicinal plant whose cultivation is constrained by drought and cadmium (Cd) contamination. DNA methylation, mediated by cytosine-5 DNA methyltransferases (C5-MTases) and DNA demethylases (dMTases), contributes to plant stress response; however, these gene families have remained uncharacterized in S. tonkinensis. Here, we identified 12 methylation-related genes (four StC5-MTases and eight StdMTases) and analyzed their phylogeny, duplication, promoter cis-elements, and expression patterns under Cd exposure and drought/rehydration. Most duplicated pairs showed Ka/Ks < 1, consistent with purifying selection. StCMT1 and StMET2 were induced by both Cd and drought stress but declined after rehydration, whereas StROS1b and StROSlike3 responded rapidly to both stresses. Heterologous overexpression in Nicotiana benthamiana improved growth under Cd stress for StCMT1 lines and under PEG-induced osmotic stress for StROSlike3 lines, as reflected by plant height and whole-plant fresh weight. Together, these findings establish a genome-wide resource for DNA methylation machinery in S. tonkinensis and provide candidate genes for investigating epigenetic regulation of abiotic stress adaptation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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21 pages, 5235 KB

Open AccessArticle

Redox Priming Ameliorates Salinity Tolerance of Seeds and Seedlings of the Coastal Halophyte Grass Urochondra setulosa

by Sadiq Hussain, Farah Nisar, Sahar Abbas, Abdul Hameed and Brent L. Nielsen

Plants 2026, 15(3), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030350 - 23 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Low salinity tolerance during germination and early seedling establishment limits large-scale cultivation of halophytes for forage, food, restoration, and conservation purposes. This study evaluates the potential of redox priming to enhance salt tolerance in the perennial C₄ halophyte grass Urochondra setulosa, [...] Read more.

Low salinity tolerance during germination and early seedling establishment limits large-scale cultivation of halophytes for forage, food, restoration, and conservation purposes. This study evaluates the potential of redox priming to enhance salt tolerance in the perennial C₄ halophyte grass Urochondra setulosa, which could be used as a revegetation and phytoremediation crop for coastal saline lands. Fresh seeds were found to be non-dormant with ~90% mean final germination (MFG) in distilled water. Redox priming, including hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), melatonin (MT), sodium nitroprusside (SNP; a nitric oxide donor), and ascorbic acid (AsA), significantly accelerated the germination rate index (GRI) and reduced mean germination time (MGT) without altering MFG under non-saline conditions. Salinity severely suppressed germination, as unprimed seeds reached only ~1% MFG with ~99% germination reduction (GR) and near-zero germination stress tolerance index (GSTI) at 200 mM NaCl. All priming treatments significantly improved MFG, GRI, and GSTI and decreased GR, with H₂O₂ priming showing the highest amelioration. Ungerminated seeds from all treatments recovered ~90% germination capacity in water, indicating enforced dormancy owing to osmotic constraints. Salinity did not impair growth in unprimed seedlings. However, MT priming uniquely enhanced total length, leaf area, and seedling vigor index (SVI) at 200 mM NaCl, while MT and SNP priming resulted in the highest chlorophyll and carotenoid contents. Multivariate analyses confirmed MT’s consistent superiority across traits under stress. Thus, H₂O₂ priming optimizes germination, while MT priming improves seedling vigor and offers a practical, targeted strategy to improve early-stage salinity tolerance in U. setulosa for coastal revegetation and sustainable saline agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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18 pages, 6864 KB

Open AccessArticle

Systematic Analysis of the Maize CAD Gene Family and Identification of an Elite Drought-Tolerant Haplotype of ZmCAD6

by Zhixiong Zhao, Wen Xu, Tao Qin, Jingtao Qu, Yuan Guan, Yingxiong Hu, Wenyu Xue, Yuan Lu, Hui Wang and Hongjian Zheng

Plants 2026, 15(2), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15020241 - 13 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Drought and salt stresses are major abiotic factors limiting maize yield. Lignin, a key cell wall component, plays a crucial role in boosting plant stress resistance. Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) is a vital enzyme at the late stage of lignin biosynthesis; however, a [...] Read more.

Drought and salt stresses are major abiotic factors limiting maize yield. Lignin, a key cell wall component, plays a crucial role in boosting plant stress resistance. Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) is a vital enzyme at the late stage of lignin biosynthesis; however, a systematic study of its functions in abiotic stress responses and its potential for genetic improvement in maize remains lacking. In this study, we conducted the first comprehensive, multi-dimensional analysis of the maize ZmCAD gene family, including gene identification, evolutionary relationships, protein interaction networks, and stress-responsive expression patterns. We identified 9 ZmCAD members that showed significant functional divergence in evolution, structure, and expression patterns. Expression analysis revealed complex, tissue-specific responses of ZmCAD genes to drought and salt stress, with ZmCAD6 strongly induced by drought. Importantly, through haplotype analysis of 157 waxy maize inbred lines, we successfully identified an elite haplotype (H3) of ZmCAD6 that is significantly associated with improved drought tolerance in maize. This study not only clarifies the functional differentiation mechanisms of the ZmCAD gene family but also provides the identified elite ZmCAD6-H3 haplotype as a valuable genetic resource and precise target for molecular breeding aimed at enhancing drought tolerance in maize. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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21 pages, 7748 KB

Open AccessArticle

Expression of the Suaeda salsa SsNLP7 Transcription Factor in Solanum lycopersicum Enhances Its Salt Tolerance

by Cuijie Cui, Yan Chen, Xiaoyan Wu, Yi Xiong, Saisai Wang and Jianbo Zhu

Plants 2026, 15(2), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15020175 - 6 Jan 2026

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Abstract

The nitrate signaling core regulator NLP7 is known to negatively regulate salt tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana, but the function of the (SsNLP7A) gene in the halophyte Suaeda salsa remains unclear. To investigate whether SsNLP7A participates in salt stress responses, this [...] Read more.

The nitrate signaling core regulator NLP7 is known to negatively regulate salt tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana, but the function of the (SsNLP7A) gene in the halophyte Suaeda salsa remains unclear. To investigate whether SsNLP7A participates in salt stress responses, this study heterologously overexpressed the gene in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and systematically evaluated its function under salt stress through phenotypic, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses. The results indicate that SsNLP7A overexpression significantly promotes tomato root development and alleviates growth inhibition caused by salt stress. Under salt treatment, transgenic plants exhibited significantly higher chlorophyll content, accumulation of osmotic regulators (proline and soluble sugars), and antioxidant enzyme (POD, CAT, SOD) activity compared to wild-type plants. Transcriptome analysis further revealed that SsNLP7A enhances salt tolerance by regulating carbon metabolism, phytohormone signaling pathway, photosynthesis, and antioxidant pathways. Collectively, this study elucidates the positive regulatory role of SsNLP7A in salt stress response, providing new insights into its molecular mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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16 pages, 3175 KB

Open AccessArticle

Salt Stress Enhances Aroma Component 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline in Aromatic Coconut (Cocos nucifera Linn.)

by Jinyao Yin, Dan Luo, Cuinan Shi, Hao Ding, Jing Li, Xiwei Sun, Xiaojun Shen, Xiaomei Liu, Amjad Iqbal and Yaodong Yang

Plants 2026, 15(2), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15020174 - 6 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Aromatic coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is valued in the consumer market primarily for its distinctive fragrance, which is largely attributed to the compound 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP). The accumulation of 2AP has been observed in several crops, such as rice, when exposed to salt [...] Read more.

Aromatic coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is valued in the consumer market primarily for its distinctive fragrance, which is largely attributed to the compound 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP). The accumulation of 2AP has been observed in several crops, such as rice, when exposed to salt stress. In rice, exposure to salt stress influences the activity of enzymes, alters amino acid metabolism, and modulates the expression of genes associated with 2AP formation. Nevertheless, the processes responsible for 2AP biosynthesis in aromatic coconut under salt stress conditions are still not well clarified. In this study, five-month-old aromatic coconut seedlings were subjected to four distinct levels of sodium chloride (NaCl) treatment (0, 100, 200, and 300 mM). This experiment was conducted to investigate the mechanisms involved in salt-induced responses and the biosynthesis of 2AP in aromatic coconut. Although salt stress did not produce any apparent injury in the coconut seedlings, it led to a marked decline in chlorophyll content. Meanwhile, salt stress markedly enhanced the accumulation of betaine and boosted the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. The aromatic coconut demonstrated a moderate level of salt tolerance. Salt stress also had a significant influence on 2AP biosynthesis. Under salt stress conditions, the 2AP content increased substantially, reaching its highest level with a 93.55% rise compared to the control. Furthermore, the synthesis of 2AP in aromatic coconut under salt stress appears to be primarily regulated through the metabolic pathways of proline and glutamate. Therefore, salt stress enhances 2AP production, with 200 mM NaCl identified as the optimal concentration for its accumulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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15 pages, 3928 KB

Open AccessArticle

Glucose-6-Phosphate 1-Epimerase Responds to Phosphate Starvation by Regulating Carbohydrate Homeostasis in Rice and Arabidopsis

by Hongkai Zhang, Shuhao Zhang, Youming Guo, Luyao You, Hongqian Ma, Yubao Cao, Haiying Zhang, Bowen Luo, Xiao Zhang, Dan Liu, Ling Wu, Duojiang Gao, Shiqiang Gao, Baolin Han, Guohua Zhang, Jijin Li, Zihao Feng, Dong Li, Yi Ma, Haibo Lan, Lijuan Gong and Shibin Gao Show full author list Hide full author list

Plants 2025, 14(24), 3869; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14243869 - 18 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Plants adapt to phosphate starvation by remodeling root architecture and reallocating carbohydrates. Glucose-6-phosphate 1-epimerase (G6PE), a key enzyme in carbon and energy metabolism, is hypothesized to contribute to phosphate starvation responses. Here, we investigated the role of G6PE in rice and Arabidopsis through [...] Read more.

Plants adapt to phosphate starvation by remodeling root architecture and reallocating carbohydrates. Glucose-6-phosphate 1-epimerase (G6PE), a key enzyme in carbon and energy metabolism, is hypothesized to contribute to phosphate starvation responses. Here, we investigated the role of G6PE in rice and Arabidopsis through phenotypic, physiological, and molecular analyses of osg6pe and atg6pe mutants. Under normal-phosphate (NP) conditions, both mutants exhibited significantly reduced biomass and fresh weight compared with the wild-type (WT) plants, indicating growth inhibition caused by the mutations. Under low-phosphate (LP) conditions, the mutants displayed enhanced root growth, suggesting that G6PE functions as a negative regulator of radial root growth under phosphate deficiency. The osg6pe mutant showed elevated phosphate content and increased leaf starch accumulation under LP, whereas it accumulated more phosphate but less starch under NP. Expression analysis revealed that G6PE transcripts were suppressed under NP but remained relatively stable under LP. Notably, among phosphate starvation-induced (PSI) genes, only PHT1;4 showed notable transcriptional changes in both species. These findings indicate that G6PE contributes to phosphate homeostasis by modulating carbohydrate metabolism, restraining radial root growth, and selectively regulating PHT1 expression under phosphate-deficient conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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21 pages, 10006 KB

Open AccessArticle

Epimedium-Derived Multi-Antioxidant Carbon Dots Nanozymes for Mitigating Drought Stress of Ginseng Seedlings

by Yanghong Liu, Tong Wu, Jialong He, Chunyao Shang, Jiaheng Li, Yu Dong, Huiyuan Xie, Chen Xu, Yingping Wang and Kai Dong

Plants 2025, 14(23), 3705; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14233705 - 4 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Drought stress induces oxidative damage that severely impairs the growth and development of ginseng seedlings. Although conventional antioxidants present a theoretical approach for mitigating such oxidative damage, their practical application is constrained by their inadequate stability. Herein, we developed multifunctional antioxidant carbon dots [...] Read more.

Drought stress induces oxidative damage that severely impairs the growth and development of ginseng seedlings. Although conventional antioxidants present a theoretical approach for mitigating such oxidative damage, their practical application is constrained by their inadequate stability. Herein, we developed multifunctional antioxidant carbon dots (CDs) synthesized from the medicinal herb Epimedium via a one-step hydrothermal method. The biomass-derived CDs exhibited efficient cascade nanozyme activities for mimicking both superoxide dismutase and catalase to achieve effective scavenging of multiple reactive oxygen species (ROS). Under drought stress, application of CDs to ginseng seedlings significantly mitigated oxidative damage through the modulation of the antioxidant enzyme system and improved osmotic regulation. Simultaneously, it could enhance photosynthetic efficiency and mitigate growth suppression caused by drought. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that CDs alleviated drought stress by triggering transcriptional reprogramming that activated genes related to antioxidant defense, photosynthetic efficiency, and stress signaling. Additionally, the CDs exhibited excellent biocompatibility and environmental safety. This work provides a novel and environmentally friendly strategy to enhance drought tolerance in medicinal plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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15 pages, 2505 KB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptive Traits and Molecular Mechanisms of Rhododendron Species in Changbai Mountains’ Alpine Tundra: A Phenotype–Transcriptome Study

by Zhongzan Yang, Jian You, Jiangnan Li, Wei Zhao, Ming Xing, Yuqiao Gong and Xia Chen

Plants 2025, 14(23), 3602; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14233602 - 26 Nov 2025

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Abstract

Alpine tundra’s harsh conditions challenge plants, but Rhododendron’s adaptive mechanisms remain unclear. This study explored phenotypic/transcriptomic adaptations of three Rhododendron species (R. aureum, R. lapponicum, R. redowskianum) in Changbai Mountains’ tundra vs. timberline. Mature leaves were sampled for [...] Read more.

Alpine tundra’s harsh conditions challenge plants, but Rhododendron’s adaptive mechanisms remain unclear. This study explored phenotypic/transcriptomic adaptations of three Rhododendron species (R. aureum, R. lapponicum, R. redowskianum) in Changbai Mountains’ tundra vs. timberline. Mature leaves were sampled for leaf length and leaf width measurement and RNA-seq. Results showed leaf width (not leaf length uniformly) reduced in tundra across all species. RNA-seq identified 2399–5716 DEGs per species; plant dwarfism DEGs (e.g., DELLA, EDS1) were up-regulated. Shared DEGs were enriched in carbon/nitrogen metabolism and stress response; IPUT1 (DUH022406.1) and PGT1 (DUH001929.1) were consistently down-regulated (linked to dwarfism). Species-specific responses included R. aureum’s light adaptation, R. lapponicum’s freezing/hypoxia response, and R. redowskianum’s sugar/UV/microbial regulation. Rhododendron adapts to tundra via leaf width adjustment, metabolic optimization, and IPUT1/PGT1-mediated dwarfism, with conserved core mechanisms and species specialization, supporting climate change response predictions and conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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16 pages, 4309 KB

Open AccessArticle

Overexpression of GmbZIP59 Confers Broad-Spectrum Stress Resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana and Rice (Oryza sativa)

by Mengnan Chai, Tingyu Liu, Xunlian Fang, Danlin Dou, Zhuangyuan Cao, Ziqi Liu, Xiaoyuan Xu, Simin Ma, Kangmin Zhu, Lian Yu, Yuan Qin, Maokai Yan and Hanyang Cai

Plants 2025, 14(21), 3326; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14213326 - 30 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Soybean (Glycine max) is a vital oilseed and economic crop in China, often constrained by drought, salinity, and biotic stresses. In this study, we identified a soybean bZIP transcription factor, GmbZIP59, whose expression is upregulated by salt, drought, ethylene (ETH), [...] Read more.

Soybean (Glycine max) is a vital oilseed and economic crop in China, often constrained by drought, salinity, and biotic stresses. In this study, we identified a soybean bZIP transcription factor, GmbZIP59, whose expression is upregulated by salt, drought, ethylene (ETH), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), and abscisic acid (ABA). Overexpression of GmbZIP59 in Arabidopsis (OE-13 and OE-20, two independent Arabidopsis transgenic lines) exhibited enhanced resistance to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (S. sclerotiorum), improved tolerance to salt stress, and increased sensitivity to phytohormones. Overexpression of GmbZIP59 in rice (OE-1 and OE-2, two independent rice transgenic lines) improved tolerance to salt and drought stresses. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed that elevated expression of stress-related genes occurred in transgenic lines under adverse conditions. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation-qPCR (ChIP-qPCR) assays confirmed that GmbZIP59 directly binds to the promoters of ETH, MeJA, and ABA, responsive genes associated with stress responses. These findings demonstrate that GmbZIP59 acts as a positive regulator of biotic and abiotic stress tolerance in soybean. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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17 pages, 4897 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Structure, Evolution, and Expression Patterns Analysis Reveals the bHLH Members Associated with Powdery Mildew Resistance in Rubber Tree

by Xiaokang Fan, Xiaoling Tang, Yiying Lu, Yan Zhang, Cuicui Wang, Yu Zhang and Lifeng Wang

Plants 2025, 14(21), 3244; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14213244 - 22 Oct 2025

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Abstract

The basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) transcription factors play a crucial role in plant development and stress resistance. Elucidating the structure and function of bHLH family members related to rubber tree powdery mildew (Erysiphe quercicola) is essential for breeding disease-resistant rubber tree varieties. [...] Read more.

The basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) transcription factors play a crucial role in plant development and stress resistance. Elucidating the structure and function of bHLH family members related to rubber tree powdery mildew (Erysiphe quercicola) is essential for breeding disease-resistant rubber tree varieties. In the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg.) variety CATAS73397, 204 HbbHLH transcription factors were systematically identified at the genome level and classified into 15 subfamilies through evolutionary analysis. The expansion of this family was primarily driven by whole-genome duplication (WGD). Based on RNA-seq data from leaves infected with powdery mildew, 11 HbbHLH genes responsive to infection were identified. Phylogenetic analysis examined the evolutionary relationships between rubber tree bHLH genes and disease-resistant bHLH genes from other plants. Promoter analysis of the 11 differentially expressed genes revealed abundant cis-elements associated with light responses, hormones, and transcription factor binding. Quantitative Real-time polymerase chain reaction validation indicated that HbbHLH87 and HbbHLH162-2 were significantly downregulated during infection, whereas HbbHLH25 was significantly upregulated. These three genes exhibited strong responses to methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and salicylic acid (SA) treatments, suggesting their involvement in jasmonic acid and SA signal transduction pathways during the immune response. This study provides important insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying disease resistance in rubber trees and identifies potential targets for breeding disease-resistant varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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17 pages, 2346 KB

Open AccessArticle

Targeted Regulation of AhGRF3b by ahy-miR396 Modulates Leaf Growth and Cold Tolerance in Peanut

by Xin Zhang, Qimei Liu, Xinyu Liu, Haoyu Lin, Xiaoyu Zhang, Rui Zhang, Zhenbo Chen, Xiaoji Zhang, Yuexia Tian, Yunyun Xue, Huiqi Zhang, Na Li, Pingping Nie and Dongmei Bai

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3203; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203203 - 18 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oil and cash crop, but its growth and productivity are severely constrained by low-temperature stress. Growth-regulating factors (GRFs) are plant-specific transcription factors involved in development and stress responses, yet their roles in peanut remain poorly [...] Read more.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oil and cash crop, but its growth and productivity are severely constrained by low-temperature stress. Growth-regulating factors (GRFs) are plant-specific transcription factors involved in development and stress responses, yet their roles in peanut remain poorly understood. In this study, we identified AhGRF3b as a direct target of ahy-miR396 using degradome sequencing, which demonstrated precise miRNA-mediated cleavage sites within the AhGRF3b transcript. Expression profiling confirmed that ahy-miR396 suppresses AhGRF3b via post-transcriptional cleavage rather than translational repression. Functional analyses showed that overexpression of AhGRF3b in Arabidopsis thaliana promoted leaf expansion by enhancing cell proliferation. Specifically, leaf length, width, and petiole length increased by 104%, 22%, and 28%, respectively (p < 0.05). Under cold stress (0 °C for 7 days), transgenic lines (OE-2 and OE-6) exhibited significantly better growth than Col-0, with fresh weight increased by 158% and 146%, respectively (p < 0.05). Effect size analysis further confirmed these differences (Cohen’s d = 11.6 for OE-2 vs. Col-0; d = 6.3 for OE-6 vs. Col-0). Protein–protein interaction assays, performed using the yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) system and 3D protein–protein docking models, further supported that AhGRF3b interacts with Catalase 1 (AhCAT1), vacuolar cation/proton exchanger 3 (AhCAX3), probable polyamine oxidase 4 (AhPAO4), and ACT domain-containing protein 11 (AhACR11), which are involved in reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and ion homeostasis. These interactions were associated with enhanced CAT and PAO enzymatic activities, reduced ROS accumulation, and upregulation of stress-related genes under cold stress. These findings suggest that the ahy-miR396/AhGRF3b module plays a potential regulatory role in leaf morphogenesis and cold tolerance, providing valuable genetic resources for breeding cold-tolerant peanut varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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14 pages, 932 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancement by Burkholderia contaminans ZCC Combined with Biochar on the Remediation of Arsenic-Contaminated Soil by Pteris vittata

by Xiaojun Yang, Yuanping Li, Dan Zhou, Hend Alwathnani and Christopher Rensing

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3169; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203169 - 15 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Arsenic pollution is a global environmental challenge, necessitating efficient and sustainable remediation technologies. This study investigates the synergistic effect of the arsenic-resistant bacterium Burkholderia contaminans ZCC (ZCC) and corn stalk biochar (BC) on arsenic-contaminated soil, with Pteris vittata as the remediation plant. Through [...] Read more.

Arsenic pollution is a global environmental challenge, necessitating efficient and sustainable remediation technologies. This study investigates the synergistic effect of the arsenic-resistant bacterium Burkholderia contaminans ZCC (ZCC) and corn stalk biochar (BC) on arsenic-contaminated soil, with Pteris vittata as the remediation plant. Through pot experiments, we evaluated the effects of various BC addition rates (0%, 1%, 5%) and ZCC inoculation on soil pH, plant growth, physiological responses, and arsenic accumulation. Biochar alone significantly increased soil pH (reaching 7.56 in the 5% BC treatment), while B. contaminans ZCC alone had a weaker effect. In combined treatments, pH changes were primarily driven by biochar. The combination of B. contaminans ZCC and BC enhanced P. vittata growth, with the 5% BC + ZCC treatment showing the greatest increase in total plant biomass (2.56 times that of the control) and total chlorophyll content (43.32% higher). This treatment also activated antioxidant systems (increased SOD, POD, and CAT activities), reduced oxidative damage (lower MDA content), and improved osmotic regulation (higher proline content). Notably, B. contaminans ZCC and BC synergistically enhanced arsenic accumulation in the P. vittata plant, with the arsenic content under the 5% BC + ZCC treatment being 2.81 times that of the control. This study demonstrates that the combination of B. contaminans ZCC and BC enhances arsenic remediation through soil improvement and plant growth promotion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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22 pages, 4622 KB

Open AccessArticle

Elucidating the Mechanistic Role of Exogenous Melatonin in Salt Stress Tolerance of Maize (Zea mays L.) Seedlings: An Integrated Physiological, Metabolomic, and Proteomic Profiling Analysis

by Zhichao Wang, Linhao Zong, Qiqi Cai, Yinjie Fu, Zhiping Gao and Guoxiang Chen

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3129; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203129 - 10 Oct 2025

Viewed by 913

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.), as a globally significant cereal crop, exhibits high sensitivity to salt stress during early seedling stages. Although melatonin (MT) has demonstrated potential in mitigating abiotic stresses, the specific mechanisms underlying MT-mediated alleviation of salt stress in maize seedlings [...] Read more.

Maize (Zea mays L.), as a globally significant cereal crop, exhibits high sensitivity to salt stress during early seedling stages. Although melatonin (MT) has demonstrated potential in mitigating abiotic stresses, the specific mechanisms underlying MT-mediated alleviation of salt stress in maize seedlings remain unclear. In this study, we established four treatment groups: control (CK), melatonin treatment (MT), salt stress (NaCl), and combined treatment (NaCl_MT). Metabolomic and proteomic analyses were performed, supplemented by photosynthesis-related experiments as well as antioxidant-related experiments. Metabolomic analysis identified key metabolites in MT-mediated salt stress mitigation. Both metabolomic and proteomic analyses underscored the critical roles of photosynthetic and antioxidant pathways. Salt stress significantly decreased the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) by 67.7%, disrupted chloroplast ultrastructure, and reduced chlorophyll content by 41.6%. Conversely, MT treatment notably mitigated these detrimental effects. Moreover, MT enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes by approximately 10–20% and reduced the accumulation of oxidative stress markers by around 10–25% in maize seedlings under salt stress. In conclusion, this study conducted a systematic and multidimensional investigation into the mitigation of salt stress in maize seedlings by MT. Our results revealed that MT enhances antioxidant systems, increases chlorophyll content, and alleviates damage to chloroplast ultrastructure, thereby improving photosystem II performance and strengthening photosynthesis. This ultimately manifests as improved seedling phenotypes under salt stress. These findings provide a meaningful entry point for breeding salt-tolerant maize varieties and mitigating the adverse effects of salinized soil on maize growth and yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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23 pages, 5965 KB

Open AccessArticle

Decoding Salinity Tolerance in Salicornia europaea L.: Image-Based Oxidative Phenotyping and Histochemical Mapping of Pectin and Lignin

by Susana Dianey Gallegos Cerda, Aleksandra Orzoł, José Jorge Chanona Pérez, Josué David Hernández Varela, Agnieszka Piernik and Stefany Cárdenas Pérez

Plants 2025, 14(19), 3055; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14193055 - 2 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1063

Abstract

Halophytes such as Salicornia europaea rely on biochemical and structural mechanisms to survive in saline environments. This study aimed to evaluate oxidative stress and structural defense responses in four inland populations—Poland (Inowrocław, Ciechocinek), Germany (Salzgraben-Salzdahlum, Salz), and Soltauquelle (Soltq)—subjected to 0, 200, 400, [...] Read more.

Halophytes such as Salicornia europaea rely on biochemical and structural mechanisms to survive in saline environments. This study aimed to evaluate oxidative stress and structural defense responses in four inland populations—Poland (Inowrocław, Ciechocinek), Germany (Salzgraben-Salzdahlum, Salz), and Soltauquelle (Soltq)—subjected to 0, 200, 400, and 1000 mM NaCl, using non-destructive, image-based approaches. Lipid peroxidation was assessed via malondialdehyde (MDA) detected with Schiff’s reagent, and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) accumulation was visualized with 3,3′-diaminobenzidine (DAB). Roots and shoots were analyzed through colour image analysis and quantified using a computer vision system (CVS). MDA accumulation revealed population-specific differences, with Salz tending to exhibit lower peroxidation, characterized by lower L* ≈ 42–43 and higher b* ≈ 37–18 in shoots at 200–400 mM, which may reflect a potentially more effective salt-management strategy. Although H₂O₂ responses deviated from a direct salinity-dependent trend, particularly in the tolerant Salz and Soltq populations, both approaches effectively tracked population-specific adaptation, with German populations displaying detectable basal H₂O₂ levels, consistent with its multifunctional signalling role in salt management and growth regulation. Structural defences were further explored through histochemical mapping and image analysis of pectin and lignin distribution, which revealed population-specific patterns consistent with cell wall remodelling under stress. Non-destructive, image-based methods proved effective for detecting oxidative and structural responses in halophytes. Such a non-destructive, cost-efficient, and reproducible approach can accelerate the identification of salt-tolerant ecotypes for saline agriculture and reinforce S. europaea as a model species for elucidating salt-tolerance mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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23 pages, 5821 KB

Open AccessArticle

Physiological and Transcriptional Regulation of Salt Tolerance in Thinopyrum ponticum and Screening of Salt-Tolerant Candidate Genes

by Ran Zhang, Rui Zhong, Kuiju Niu, Fang Jia, Yuehan Liu and Xiaoxia Li

Plants 2025, 14(17), 2771; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14172771 - 4 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1311

Abstract

The tall wheatgrass Thinopyrum ponticum has excellent saline–alkali tolerance and great potential for restoring saline–alkali land to enhance productivity. This study used the Thinopyrum ponticum cv. “Orbit” variety, which is widely planted in saline–alkali pastures, as the material and artificially simulated salt stress [...] Read more.

The tall wheatgrass Thinopyrum ponticum has excellent saline–alkali tolerance and great potential for restoring saline–alkali land to enhance productivity. This study used the Thinopyrum ponticum cv. “Orbit” variety, which is widely planted in saline–alkali pastures, as the material and artificially simulated salt stress using 150 mM NaCl and 150 mM Na₂SO₄, respectively. The growth and physiological indexes of the leaves and roots of seedlings were measured after various treatment durations, and the transcriptomes of untreated and Na₂SO₄-treated leaves and roots were also analyzed after 24 h of treatment. The results showed that salt stress resulted in significant reductions in leaf relative water content in seedlings and inhibited root elongation growth, with Na₂SO₄ treatment producing a greater impact on plant growth than NaCl treatment. Salt stress significantly alters ion transport and distribution in Thinopyrum ponticum, characterized by pronounced Na⁺ accumulation and a concomitant decline in K⁺ uptake. Additionally, to adapt to salt stress, roots enhance their ability to absorb and transport essential cations, such as Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe³⁺, and Cu²⁺. RNA-Seq analysis identified 1682 and 2816 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in leaves and roots under Na₂SO₄ stress, respectively, with 210 common DEGs. Enrichment analyses revealed that DEGs were primarily associated with redox homeostasis, ion balance, and signal transduction. Furthermore, transcription regulation analysis indicated the Thinopyrum ponticum can coordinate the activation of NAC/MYB/WRKY transcription factors, SA/ETH hormone signaling, and Ca²⁺ pathways in response to salt stress. In summary, this study systematically reveals for the first time the molecular mechanisms by which Thinopyrum ponticum responds to Na₂SO₄ stress through coordinated regulation of ion transport, transcription factor networks, and hormone-Ca²⁺ signaling pathways. Based on transcriptomic and protein–protein interaction analyses, nine key candidate genes for saline–alkali tolerance were identified, including UGT7472, JMT, T4E14.7, CAX5, CP1, PXG2 NAMT1, BON3, and APX7. These findings provide novel genetic resources and a theoretical foundation for breeding salt–alkali-tolerant crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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18 pages, 2194 KB

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The Age-Dependent Response of Carbon Coordination in the Organs of Pinus yunnanensis Seedlings Under Shade Stress

by Juncheng Han, Yuanxi Liu, Wenhao Zhang, Guihe Duan, Jialan Chen, Weisong Zhu and Junwen Wu

Plants 2025, 14(17), 2679; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14172679 - 27 Aug 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 865

Abstract

To elucidate shade adaptation mechanisms in Pinus yunnanensis seedlings across different ages, this study established five light gradients (100% full sunlight as control or CK, 80% as L1, 45% as L2, 30% as L3, and 5% as L4) for experimental treatments on one- [...] Read more.

To elucidate shade adaptation mechanisms in Pinus yunnanensis seedlings across different ages, this study established five light gradients (100% full sunlight as control or CK, 80% as L1, 45% as L2, 30% as L3, and 5% as L4) for experimental treatments on one- and three-year-old seedlings. By analyzing dynamic changes in non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs) and their components within needles, stems, and roots—combined with a phenotypic plasticity assessment, a correlation analysis, and a principal component analysis—we explored the carbon metabolic adaptations under shade stress. The key results demonstrate the following: (1) Increasing shade intensity significantly reduced the NSCs in the needles and roots of both age groups. The stem NSCs markedly decreased under L1 and L2, indicating “carbon limitation.” However, under severe shade (L3 and L4), the stem NSCs stabilized while the stem soluble sugars gradually increased. In three-year-old Pinus yunnanensis seedlings under the L3 treatment, the ratio of soluble sugars to starch in the stems reached as high as 5.772 g·kg⁻¹, yet the stem NSC content showed no significant change. This pattern exhibited “growth stagnation-carbon enrichment” characteristics. This reveals a physiological strategy for maintaining stem carbon homeostasis through a “structure–metabolism” trade-off under carbon limitation. (2) Shade adaptations diverged by age: one-year-old seedlings employed a short-term “needle–root source–sink reallocation” strategy, whereas three-year-old seedlings developed a “root–stem–needle closed-loop homeostasis regulation” mechanism. (3) Age-specific shade thresholds were identified: one-year-old seedlings required >80% full light to maintain a carbon balance, while three-year-old seedlings exhibited enhanced root carbon storage under moderate shade (45–80% full light). This study clarifies the physiological mechanisms by which P. yunnanensis seedlings of varying ages optimize shade adaptation through organ-specific carbon allocation, providing a theoretical foundation for shade management in artificial forests and understory seedling conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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21 pages, 5398 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing UV-B Protection and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Tomato Plants: The Role of Silicon Nanoparticles in Photosynthetic Parameters, Pigments, and Secondary Metabolite Production

by Florina Copaciu, Cosmin-Alin Faur, Andrea Bunea, Loredana Leopold, Rodica Maria Sima, Mihai Andrei Lăcătuș, Andreea Lupitu, Cristian Moisa, Dana Maria Copolovici and Lucian Copolovici

Plants 2025, 14(16), 2599; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14162599 - 21 Aug 2025

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2010

Abstract

Tomato fruit (Solanum lycopersicum) is a valuable agricultural crop worldwide due to its nutritional value and culinary applications, making it one of the most widely consumed vegetables in the human diet. However, excessive solar UV-B radiation represents a significant factor in [...] Read more.

Tomato fruit (Solanum lycopersicum) is a valuable agricultural crop worldwide due to its nutritional value and culinary applications, making it one of the most widely consumed vegetables in the human diet. However, excessive solar UV-B radiation represents a significant factor in decreasing productivity, marketable yields, and fruit quality in tomato crops by causing damage to both DNA and the photosynthetic system, as well as chlorophyll degradation. The application of silicon nanoparticles has been shown to increase tolerance to abiotic stressors, including enhanced UV-B radiation. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the protective effects of foliar silicon nanoparticle (SiNP) application on photosynthetic parameters, photosynthetic pigments, and secondary metabolites under enhanced UV-B stress in tomato plants. Photosynthetic parameters (stomatal conductance to water vapor, net CO₂ assimilation rate, transpiration rate, and intercellular CO₂ molar fraction), biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), chlorophylls, and carotenoids were evaluated. The application of SiNPs showed beneficial effects on plants grown under ambient UV-B conditions, increasing photosynthetic parameters while also enhancing chlorophyll and carotenoid levels. In plants exposed to enhanced UV-B radiation, SiNP treatment helped to maintain and even improve photosynthetic parameters and stomatal function in leaves while also promoting the accumulation of photosynthetic pigments. Additionally, the application of SiNPs also resulted in a slightly higher content of lycopene and total carotenoids in tomato fruits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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19 pages, 780 KB

Open AccessReview

Functional 14-3-3 Proteins: Master Regulators in Plant Responses to Salt Stress

by Dongxue Tang, Yiwu Zhao, Zhongliang Wang, Junwen Kong, Naiqing Dong, Ling Zheng and Shuangshuang Zhao

Plants 2025, 14(23), 3568; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14233568 - 22 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1119

Abstract

14-3-3 proteins are highly conserved regulatory molecules that play a central role in plant responses to salt stress. These proteins modulate the activity, stability, and localization of diverse target proteins. This review summarizes current advances in understanding the multifaceted roles of 14-3-3 proteins [...] Read more.

14-3-3 proteins are highly conserved regulatory molecules that play a central role in plant responses to salt stress. These proteins modulate the activity, stability, and localization of diverse target proteins. This review summarizes current advances in understanding the multifaceted roles of 14-3-3 proteins in salt stress signaling. Specifically, it details how 14-3-3 proteins interact with and regulate diverse components, including protein kinases, phosphatases, ion channels and transporters, proton pumps, metabolic enzymes, and transcription factors. These interactions are predominantly phosphorylation-dependent and often involve calcium (Ca²⁺) and other second messengers. Additionally, 14-3-3 proteins themselves are subject to post-translational regulation, such as phosphorylation and ubiquitination, which fine-tune their stability and activity under stress conditions. This review highlights 14-3-3 proteins as versatile molecular switches in salt stress signaling, integrating diverse signals to orchestrate stress tolerance mechanisms. It also identifies critical knowledge gaps and outlines future research directions aimed at leveraging these proteins for improving crop resilience to salinity stress, an ongoing challenge in modern agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

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