Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-02-18DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114693
Xiaochen Wang , Ziye Nie , Lingchao Kong , Yi Wang , Xiaoxu Wang , Zhenchang Liang , Peige Fan
Monoterpenoids are key contributors to the characteristic aroma of Muscat-scented grapes, yet their biosynthesis and underlying mechanism to cluster-specific blue light remain poorly understood. In this study, three independent experiments in table Muscat-scented grape demonstrated that blue light is the most effective light quality for promoting monoterpenoid biosynthesis, particularly linalool accumulation. Notably, blue light applied exclusively to the cluster zone significantly enhanced monoterpenoid profiles through a leaf-independent pathway. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis revealed that blue light markedly upregulated genes involved in terpenoid biosynthesis compared with dark-treated controls. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified the MEblue as the module most strongly associated with monoterpenoid contents. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted DXR, LIS, and TPS54 as key structural genes mediating blue light-induced monoterpenoid biosynthesis, while VvbHLH02 and VvTH12 were predicted as potential transcriptional regulators. Together, these results elucidate the regulatory network underlying blue light-induced monoterpenoid biosynthesis in grape berries and provide a molecular basis for improving grape aroma through targeted light management strategies.
{"title":"Integrated analysis of monoterpenoid and transcriptome profiles under blue light in Muscat-scented grape","authors":"Xiaochen Wang , Ziye Nie , Lingchao Kong , Yi Wang , Xiaoxu Wang , Zhenchang Liang , Peige Fan","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114693","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114693","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Monoterpenoids are key contributors to the characteristic aroma of Muscat-scented grapes, yet their biosynthesis and underlying mechanism to cluster-specific blue light remain poorly understood. In this study, three independent experiments in table Muscat-scented grape demonstrated that blue light is the most effective light quality for promoting monoterpenoid biosynthesis, particularly linalool accumulation. Notably, blue light applied exclusively to the cluster zone significantly enhanced monoterpenoid profiles through a leaf-independent pathway. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis revealed that blue light markedly upregulated genes involved in terpenoid biosynthesis compared with dark-treated controls. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified the MEblue as the module most strongly associated with monoterpenoid contents. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted <em>DXR, LIS</em>, and <em>TPS54</em> as key structural genes mediating blue light-induced monoterpenoid biosynthesis, while VvbHLH02 and VvTH12 were predicted as potential transcriptional regulators. Together, these results elucidate the regulatory network underlying blue light-induced monoterpenoid biosynthesis in grape berries and provide a molecular basis for improving grape aroma through targeted light management strategies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114693"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146777790","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-02-24DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114706
Hesham F. Alharby , Assiya Ansabayeva , Amnah M. Alamri , Sameera A. Alghamdi , Haifa A.S. Alhaithloul , Mikhail Puchkov , Magomed S. Gaplaev , Yasser A.M. Shehata , Ayman M.S. Elshamly , Nadi Awad Al-Harbi , Mostafa Abdelkader
Garlic is a widely cultivated vegetable valued for its health-promoting compounds. This study investigated the effects of humic acid (HA) and potassium (K) on garlic productivity, bioactive compounds, and nutrient uptake. A field trial was conducted to evaluate treatments combining potassium sulfate (120 and 150 kg K₂O ha⁻¹) and humic acid (10 and 20 kg ha⁻¹). Potassium and humic acid significantly enhanced garlic performance, with combined treatments producing the most potent effects. Applying humic and K significantly increased productivity. Photosynthetic pigments increased up to 22% for chlorophylls and 45.7% for carotenoids, improving photosynthesis and photoprotection. HA raised TSS by 20% and vitamin C by 32%. Potassium enhanced TSS by 24%, carbohydrates by 3%, and vitamin C by 28%. Combined treatments maximized TSS (+32%) and vitamin C (+38%), with polyphenols restored to 40%. Bioactive compounds, metabolites, and antioxidants were enhanced, with proline up to 45%, H₂O₂ up to 55.7%, APX up to 25%, SOD up to 42%, and CAT up to 25–79%, indicating improved osmotic and oxidative management. Nutrient uptake (N, P, Ca, Mg, S, and K) improved markedly, highlighting balanced nutrient allocation from leaves to cloves. Moderate combinations (K120+HA10) maximized yield, improved photosynthetic pigments, increased vitamin C and total soluble solids, and balanced nutrient allocation between cloves and leaves. These results demonstrate that integrating HA and K provides a practical strategy to support sustainable production under nutrient-efficient management.
大蒜是一种广泛种植的蔬菜，因其有益健康的化合物而受到重视。本研究探讨了腐植酸（HA）和钾(K)对大蒜产量、生物活性化合物和养分吸收的影响。我们进行了实地试验，以评估硫酸钾（120和150公斤K₂O ha⁻¹）和腐殖酸（10和20公斤ha⁻¹）联合治疗的效果。钾和腐植酸显著提高大蒜的生产性能，其中联合处理效果最显著。施用腐殖质和钾肥显著提高了产量。叶绿素和类胡萝卜素的光合色素含量分别增加了22%和45.7%，提高了光合作用和光保护能力。透明质酸使TSS提高20%，维生素C提高32%。钾使TSS提高24%，碳水化合物提高3%，维生素C提高28%。联合处理使TSS（+32%）和维生素C（+38%）最大化，多酚恢复到40%。生物活性化合物、代谢物和抗氧化剂得到增强，脯氨酸含量高达45%，H₂O₂含量高达55.7%，APX含量高达25%，SOD含量高达42%，CAT含量高达25-79%，表明渗透和氧化管理得到改善。养分吸收（N， P, Ca, Mg， S和K）显著提高，突出了从叶片到丁香的营养分配平衡。适度组合（K120+HA10）产量最高，提高了光合色素，增加了维生素C和总可溶性固形物，平衡了丁香和叶片之间的营养分配。这些结果表明，在养分高效管理下，将HA和K结合为支持可持续生产提供了可行的策略。
{"title":"Humic acid and potassium synergy drives metabolic activation, antioxidant enhancement, and improved nutrient absorption in garlic plants (Allium sativum L.)","authors":"Hesham F. Alharby , Assiya Ansabayeva , Amnah M. Alamri , Sameera A. Alghamdi , Haifa A.S. Alhaithloul , Mikhail Puchkov , Magomed S. Gaplaev , Yasser A.M. Shehata , Ayman M.S. Elshamly , Nadi Awad Al-Harbi , Mostafa Abdelkader","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114706","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114706","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Garlic is a widely cultivated vegetable valued for its health-promoting compounds. This study investigated the effects of humic acid (HA) and potassium (K) on garlic productivity, bioactive compounds, and nutrient uptake. A field trial was conducted to evaluate treatments combining potassium sulfate (120 and 150 kg K₂O ha⁻¹) and humic acid (10 and 20 kg ha⁻¹). Potassium and humic acid significantly enhanced garlic performance, with combined treatments producing the most potent effects. Applying humic and K significantly increased productivity. Photosynthetic pigments increased up to 22% for chlorophylls and 45.7% for carotenoids, improving photosynthesis and photoprotection. HA raised TSS by 20% and vitamin C by 32%. Potassium enhanced TSS by 24%, carbohydrates by 3%, and vitamin C by 28%. Combined treatments maximized TSS (+32%) and vitamin C (+38%), with polyphenols restored to 40%. Bioactive compounds, metabolites, and antioxidants were enhanced, with proline up to 45%, H₂O₂ up to 55.7%, APX up to 25%, SOD up to 42%, and CAT up to 25–79%, indicating improved osmotic and oxidative management. Nutrient uptake (N, P, Ca, Mg, S, and K) improved markedly, highlighting balanced nutrient allocation from leaves to cloves. Moderate combinations (K120+HA10) maximized yield, improved photosynthetic pigments, increased vitamin C and total soluble solids, and balanced nutrient allocation between cloves and leaves. These results demonstrate that integrating HA and K provides a practical strategy to support sustainable production under nutrient-efficient management.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114706"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147278333","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-02-18DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114677
Chao Fan , Qiu-Ping Wu , Zaohai Zeng , Wei Liu , Jie Yang , Rong Chen , Ji-Wu Zeng , Rui Xia
Fruit shape is a key horticultural trait affecting the market value and consumer preference of mango (Mangifera indica L.), but the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying its variation remain unclear. In this study, a high-quality genome of 'Jinpingmang' (‘JPM’), a cultivar with spherical fruits, was obtained. The assembled genome size is 350.66 Mb, containing 34,035 protein-coding genes, with repetitive sequences accounting for 39.28% of the genome. Two cultivars with significantly different fruit shapes, 'Hongxiangya' (‘HXY’) and 'JPM', were selected for fruit development observation and transcriptome sequencing. It was found that DAP3, DAP5, and DAP10 are critical stages for fruit shape development, and a total of 467 fruit shape-related genes were identified. Seventy-five mango germplasms with different fruit shapes were resequenced to obtain 26,285,317 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), based on which the 75 accessions were clustered into 4 groups with significant differences in fruit shape. Combined with 9 fruit-related traits from three-dimensional scanning, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 72 accessions on 6 key fruit shape traits identified 99 genetic loci (linked to 59 annotated genes) as well as fruit volume and fruit shape index. Integration of GWAS and transcriptome data identified 44 key candidate genes with significant differential expression during development, among which 8 genes including LOC123222869 (TCP4-like), LOC123213947 (bZIP61-like), LOC123210819 (ABC-G10), LOC123200572 (ARF3) and LOC123228419 (TTL1) were proposed as key candidates underlying fruit shape variation. This study provides high-quality resources for dissecting key genetic loci associated with mango fruit shape differences and can inform future genome-based breeding for improved fruit shape in mango.
{"title":"Integrative genome-wide association study and transcriptomic analyses unveil key candidate genes regulating fruit shape diversity in mango","authors":"Chao Fan , Qiu-Ping Wu , Zaohai Zeng , Wei Liu , Jie Yang , Rong Chen , Ji-Wu Zeng , Rui Xia","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114677","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114677","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Fruit shape is a key horticultural trait affecting the market value and consumer preference of mango (<em>Mangifera indica</em> L.), but the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying its variation remain unclear. In this study, a high-quality genome of 'Jinpingmang' (‘JPM’), a cultivar with spherical fruits, was obtained. The assembled genome size is 350.66 Mb, containing 34,035 protein-coding genes, with repetitive sequences accounting for 39.28% of the genome. Two cultivars with significantly different fruit shapes, 'Hongxiangya' (‘HXY’) and 'JPM', were selected for fruit development observation and transcriptome sequencing. It was found that DAP3, DAP5, and DAP10 are critical stages for fruit shape development, and a total of 467 fruit shape-related genes were identified. Seventy-five mango germplasms with different fruit shapes were resequenced to obtain 26,285,317 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), based on which the 75 accessions were clustered into 4 groups with significant differences in fruit shape. Combined with 9 fruit-related traits from three-dimensional scanning, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 72 accessions on 6 key fruit shape traits identified 99 genetic loci (linked to 59 annotated genes) as well as fruit volume and fruit shape index. Integration of GWAS and transcriptome data identified 44 key candidate genes with significant differential expression during development, among which 8 genes including <em>LOC123222869</em> (<em>TCP4-like</em>), <em>LOC123213947 (bZIP61-like</em>), <em>LOC123210819</em> (<em>ABC-G10</em>), <em>LOC123200572</em> (<em>ARF3</em>) and <em>LOC123228419</em> (<em>TTL1</em>) were proposed as key candidates underlying fruit shape variation. This study provides high-quality resources for dissecting key genetic loci associated with mango fruit shape differences and can inform future genome-based breeding for improved fruit shape in mango.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114677"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146778643","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
DNA demethylation is an essential epigenetic mechanism responsible for regulating the ripening and quality of fruit, yet its role in postharvest ethylene and volatile formation in oriental melon (Cucumis melo var. Makuwa) remains largely unexplored. This study combined multi-omics analysis with epigenetic intervention to systematically investigate how DNA methylation affects fruit ripening by regulating ethylene and volatile production. The promoter methylation levels of several core genes related to ethylene and aliphatic aromatic compound biosynthesis, including LOX (MELO3C011885 and MELO3C024348), ADH (MELO3C011043), AAT (MELO3C024771 and MELO3C024007), and ACO (MELO3C007425 and MELO3C026436), were negatively correlated with transcriptional activity. DNA methyltransferase-encoding gene (CMT, MET, and DRM) expression declined during postharvest ripening, whereas that of the gene encoding the demethylase (DML) was significantly upregulated on day 7. Treatment with DNA demethylation agent (5-azacytidine, 5-Aza) improved the ester content by 2.1-fold, enhanced lipoxygenase and alcohol dehydrogenase activities by 1.8- and 2.3-fold, and up-regulated ethylene production by up to 1.9-fold. In conclusion, DNA methylation dynamically regulates the expression of lipid metabolism and ethylene biosynthesis pathway genes, thereby significantly influencing the accumulation of aliphatic aromatic compounds and ethylene production in oriental melons. The findings provide insights into epigenetic mechanisms that can be targeted for fruit quality improvement.
{"title":"DNA demethylation promotes postharvest ripening in oriental melon (Cucumis melo var. makuwa) via regulation of ethylene and volatile biosynthesis","authors":"Xinqi Guo, Qiang Chen, Ying Zhang, Hongbo Pang, Chong Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114721","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114721","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>DNA demethylation is an essential epigenetic mechanism responsible for regulating the ripening and quality of fruit, yet its role in postharvest ethylene and volatile formation in oriental melon (<em>Cucumis melo</em> var. Makuwa) remains largely unexplored. This study combined multi-omics analysis with epigenetic intervention to systematically investigate how DNA methylation affects fruit ripening by regulating ethylene and volatile production. The promoter methylation levels of several core genes related to ethylene and aliphatic aromatic compound biosynthesis, including <em>LOX</em> (MELO3C011885 and MELO3C024348), <em>ADH</em> (MELO3C011043), <em>AAT</em> (MELO3C024771 and MELO3C024007), and <em>ACO</em> (MELO3C007425 and MELO3C026436), were negatively correlated with transcriptional activity. DNA methyltransferase-encoding gene (<em>CMT, MET</em>, and <em>DRM</em>) expression declined during postharvest ripening, whereas that of the gene encoding the demethylase (<em>DML</em>) was significantly upregulated on day 7. Treatment with DNA demethylation agent (5-azacytidine, 5-Aza) improved the ester content by 2.1-fold, enhanced lipoxygenase and alcohol dehydrogenase activities by 1.8- and 2.3-fold, and up-regulated ethylene production by up to 1.9-fold. In conclusion, DNA methylation dynamically regulates the expression of lipid metabolism and ethylene biosynthesis pathway genes, thereby significantly influencing the accumulation of aliphatic aromatic compounds and ethylene production in oriental melons. The findings provide insights into epigenetic mechanisms that can be targeted for fruit quality improvement.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114721"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147334362","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-03-02DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114678
Yu Tao , Yan Zhou , Shijing Zhou , Chanchan Huang , Hui Deng , Wenrong Wang , Di Peng , Chi Zhou , Xin Li
Bacillus velezensis is a plant-growth-promoting bacterium with considerable potential to enhance soil nutrient availability and crop nutrient uptake. To elucidate the microecological and molecular mechanisms underlying its growth-promoting effects in muskmelon, a field experiment compared inactivated B. velezensis (CK) with live B. velezensis biofertilizer (BV). We systematically analyzed rhizosphere soil nutrients, enzyme activities, yield, and fruit quality, combined with high-throughput sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics. BV treatment increased muskmelon yield by 31.67% and elevated fruit contents of soluble sugars, soluble proteins, and vitamin C. It also significantly restructured microbial communities in the rhizosphere and root endosphere. Functional genera such as Actinomadura and Luteitalea, involved in organic matter decomposition and nutrient activation, were enriched in the rhizosphere. Beneficial bacteria such as Chryseobacterium and Pseudomonas, associated with phosphorus solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and stress resistance, were enriched in the root endosphere. These microbial shifts drove soil nutrient optimization, significantly increasing NO3⁻–N and available phosphorus by 42.06% and 34.34%, respectively (P < 0.05). Key enzyme activities (URE, CAT, INV) were upregulated, enhancing carbon and nitrogen transformation. Metabolomic analysis revealed upregulation of organic nitrogen compounds, nucleotides, and signaling molecules such as benzothiazepines and saccharolipids, while phenylpropanoid biosynthesis was downregulated, indicating a metabolic shift from defense to growth promotion. Integrated multi-omics revealed that BV established a “microbe–soil–metabolite” network, where microbial communities correlated positively with soil nutrients and beneficial metabolites, synergistically improving nutrient cycling and energy metabolism. This study demonstrates that B. velezensis enhances muskmelon yield and quality by restructuring functional microbiota, activating soil enzymes and nutrient cycling, and reprogramming metabolic resource allocation, thereby optimizing the rhizosphere microecosystem.
{"title":"Effects of Bacillus velezensis inoculant on crop yield and microbial communities of muskmelon in South China","authors":"Yu Tao , Yan Zhou , Shijing Zhou , Chanchan Huang , Hui Deng , Wenrong Wang , Di Peng , Chi Zhou , Xin Li","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114678","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114678","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Bacillus velezensis</em> is a plant-growth-promoting bacterium with considerable potential to enhance soil nutrient availability and crop nutrient uptake. To elucidate the microecological and molecular mechanisms underlying its growth-promoting effects in muskmelon, a field experiment compared inactivated <em>B. velezensis</em> (CK) with live <em>B. velezensis</em> biofertilizer (BV). We systematically analyzed rhizosphere soil nutrients, enzyme activities, yield, and fruit quality, combined with high-throughput sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics. BV treatment increased muskmelon yield by 31.67% and elevated fruit contents of soluble sugars, soluble proteins, and vitamin C. It also significantly restructured microbial communities in the rhizosphere and root endosphere. Functional genera such as <em>Actinomadura</em> and <em>Luteitalea</em>, involved in organic matter decomposition and nutrient activation, were enriched in the rhizosphere. Beneficial bacteria such as <em>Chryseobacterium</em> and <em>Pseudomonas</em>, associated with phosphorus solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and stress resistance, were enriched in the root endosphere. These microbial shifts drove soil nutrient optimization, significantly increasing NO<sub>3</sub><sup>⁻</sup>–N and available phosphorus by 42.06% and 34.34%, respectively (<em>P</em> < 0.05). Key enzyme activities (URE, CAT, INV) were upregulated, enhancing carbon and nitrogen transformation. Metabolomic analysis revealed upregulation of organic nitrogen compounds, nucleotides, and signaling molecules such as benzothiazepines and saccharolipids, while phenylpropanoid biosynthesis was downregulated, indicating a metabolic shift from defense to growth promotion. Integrated multi-omics revealed that BV established a “microbe–soil–metabolite” network, where microbial communities correlated positively with soil nutrients and beneficial metabolites, synergistically improving nutrient cycling and energy metabolism. This study demonstrates that <em>B. velezensis</em> enhances muskmelon yield and quality by restructuring functional microbiota, activating soil enzymes and nutrient cycling, and reprogramming metabolic resource allocation, thereby optimizing the rhizosphere microecosystem.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114678"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147359558","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-03-09DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114729
Yinglin Ji , Mingqian Wang , Aide Wang , Bin Li
R2R3-MYBs play a critical role for anthocyanin synthesis in plant. Here we performed genome-wide identification and functional characterization of the R2R3-MYB transcription factor family in pear (Pyrus pyrifolia), with particular emphasis on their regulatory roles in anthocyanin biosynthesis and fruit coloration. Bioinformatic analysis revealed 130 putative R2R3-MYB genes, which were subsequently characterized through integrated analyses of chromosomal distribution, structural features, conserved domains, and evolutionary relationships. Through comprehensive transcriptome profiling and expression pattern analysis, we identified five R2R3-MYB candidates that exhibited strong correlation with anthocyanin accumulation in pear skin. Homology analysis and functional prediction revealed that these candidates share significant sequence similarity with characterized anthocyanin-regulatory MYBs across diverse plant species. Spatiotemporal expression analysis revealed stage-specific regulatory patterns associated with anthocyanin accumulation. Our findings establish a comprehensive framework for understanding anthocyanin regulation in pear and provide molecular targets for breeding enhanced red-skinned cultivars.
{"title":"Genome-wide identification of R2R3-MYB gene family and association with anthocyanin biosynthesis in pear","authors":"Yinglin Ji , Mingqian Wang , Aide Wang , Bin Li","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114729","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114729","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>R2R3-MYBs play a critical role for anthocyanin synthesis in plant. Here we performed genome-wide identification and functional characterization of the R2R3-MYB transcription factor family in pear (<em>Pyrus pyrifolia</em>), with particular emphasis on their regulatory roles in anthocyanin biosynthesis and fruit coloration. Bioinformatic analysis revealed 130 putative <em>R2R3-MYB</em> genes, which were subsequently characterized through integrated analyses of chromosomal distribution, structural features, conserved domains, and evolutionary relationships. Through comprehensive transcriptome profiling and expression pattern analysis, we identified five <em>R2R3-MYB</em> candidates that exhibited strong correlation with anthocyanin accumulation in pear skin. Homology analysis and functional prediction revealed that these candidates share significant sequence similarity with characterized anthocyanin-regulatory MYBs across diverse plant species. Spatiotemporal expression analysis revealed stage-specific regulatory patterns associated with anthocyanin accumulation. Our findings establish a comprehensive framework for understanding anthocyanin regulation in pear and provide molecular targets for breeding enhanced red-skinned cultivars.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114729"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147393018","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-03-07DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114733
Xu Sun , Shengtao Qu , Zhen Wang , Fangjie Yao , Lixin Lu , Ming Fang , Xiaoxu Ma , Yuling Cui , Jian Sun , Wei Liu , Xianqi Shan , Yuan Ma
Auricularia cornea is an important edible and medicinal mushroom; however, its genetic improvement has been constrained by the limited understanding of its genetic diversity and the absence of robust molecular markers. In this study, we resequenced 140 accessions and identified 2512,778 high-confidence SNPs after stringent quality filtering. Population structure, principal component, and phylogenetic analyses consistently resolved the accessions into four distinct genetic groups. Wild accessions from similar geographic regions exhibited pronounced regional clustering, indicating a strong correspondence between genetic differentiation and geographic distribution. Based on the genome-wide SNP dataset, we developed a core panel of 50 highly informative Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) markers. These markers exhibited high levels of polymorphism, with mean polymorphism information content (PIC), minor allele frequency (MAF), gene diversity, and heterozygosity values of 0.36, 0.35, 0.25, and 0.43, respectively. Using this marker panel, we established a standardized DNA fingerprinting scheme for all accessions, facilitating precise and high-resolution germplasm discrimination. This core KASP marker set and reference fingerprinting system provide robust molecular tools for germplasm authentication, variety validation, and marker-assisted breeding, thereby laying a solid foundation for advancing the genetic improvement and efficient utilization of A. cornea resources.
{"title":"Development of KASP markers, SNP fingerprinting and population genetic analysis of Auricularia cornea","authors":"Xu Sun , Shengtao Qu , Zhen Wang , Fangjie Yao , Lixin Lu , Ming Fang , Xiaoxu Ma , Yuling Cui , Jian Sun , Wei Liu , Xianqi Shan , Yuan Ma","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114733","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114733","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Auricularia cornea</em> is an important edible and medicinal mushroom; however, its genetic improvement has been constrained by the limited understanding of its genetic diversity and the absence of robust molecular markers. In this study, we resequenced 140 accessions and identified 2512,778 high-confidence SNPs after stringent quality filtering. Population structure, principal component, and phylogenetic analyses consistently resolved the accessions into four distinct genetic groups. Wild accessions from similar geographic regions exhibited pronounced regional clustering, indicating a strong correspondence between genetic differentiation and geographic distribution. Based on the genome-wide SNP dataset, we developed a core panel of 50 highly informative Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) markers. These markers exhibited high levels of polymorphism, with mean polymorphism information content (PIC), minor allele frequency (MAF), gene diversity, and heterozygosity values of 0.36, 0.35, 0.25, and 0.43, respectively. Using this marker panel, we established a standardized DNA fingerprinting scheme for all accessions, facilitating precise and high-resolution germplasm discrimination. This core KASP marker set and reference fingerprinting system provide robust molecular tools for germplasm authentication, variety validation, and marker-assisted breeding, thereby laying a solid foundation for advancing the genetic improvement and efficient utilization of <em>A. cornea</em> resources.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114733"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147393067","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-03-06DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114731
Zhuo Lv , Keying Ding , Wenbao Ma , Wenyu Li , Hongchen Yang , Yuanzhi Pan , Beibei Jiang , Yin Jia
Primula forbesii Franch. is a biennial ornamental species increasingly used in flower landscape design, potted displays, and cut flower production. Nevertheless, studies on its flowering regulation remain limited. This study investigated the effects of gibberellin (GA3) and spermidine (Spd) on the flowering performance of P. forbesii, using flowering time, scape morphology, and physiological parameters as key evaluation indices. At the onset of floral bud differentiation, 15 foliar spray treatments were applied. The most effective treatment contained 200 mg·L-1 GA3 and 0.01 mmol·L-1 Spd, which extended flowering duration by 5 days and promoted earlier bud emergence. Notably, this treatment significantly enhanced scape traits compared to the distilled water treatment, increasing internode length between floral whorls, the main scape height, and diameter. The scape number was increased by 361.54%. At the full flowering stage, the combination of 200 mg·L-1 GA3 and 0.01 mmol·L-1 Spd reduced malondialdehyde content and peroxidase activity in petals, while enhancing superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, along with soluble protein and soluble sugar accumulation. Endogenous hormone profiling showed that the treatment significantly raised levels of GA3, indole-3-acetic acid, and zeatin riboside, while reducing abscisic acid content. These results demonstrate that the combined application of 200 mg·L-1 GA3 and 0.01 mmol·L-1 Spd effectively enhances ornamental quality and delays senescence in P. forbesii. The findings provide valuable insights into the hormonal regulation of flowering senescence in ornamental plants and may help guide future strategies for cut‑flower preservation and quality maintenance.
{"title":"Exogenous gibberellin and spermidine optimize flowering time and ornamental quality by regulating antioxidant capacity, soluble nutrient levels, and endogenous hormone balance of Primula forbesii","authors":"Zhuo Lv , Keying Ding , Wenbao Ma , Wenyu Li , Hongchen Yang , Yuanzhi Pan , Beibei Jiang , Yin Jia","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114731","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114731","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Primula forbesii</em> Franch. is a biennial ornamental species increasingly used in flower landscape design, potted displays, and cut flower production. Nevertheless, studies on its flowering regulation remain limited. This study investigated the effects of gibberellin (GA<sub>3</sub>) and spermidine (Spd) on the flowering performance of <em>P. forbesii</em>, using flowering time, scape morphology, and physiological parameters as key evaluation indices. At the onset of floral bud differentiation, 15 foliar spray treatments were applied. The most effective treatment contained 200 mg·L<sup>-1</sup> GA<sub>3</sub> and 0.01 mmol·L<sup>-1</sup> Spd, which extended flowering duration by 5 days and promoted earlier bud emergence. Notably, this treatment significantly enhanced scape traits compared to the distilled water treatment, increasing internode length between floral whorls, the main scape height, and diameter. The scape number was increased by 361.54%. At the full flowering stage, the combination of 200 mg·L<sup>-1</sup> GA<sub>3</sub> and 0.01 mmol·L<sup>-1</sup> Spd reduced malondialdehyde content and peroxidase activity in petals, while enhancing superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, along with soluble protein and soluble sugar accumulation. Endogenous hormone profiling showed that the treatment significantly raised levels of GA<sub>3</sub>, indole-3-acetic acid, and zeatin riboside, while reducing abscisic acid content. These results demonstrate that the combined application of 200 mg·L<sup>-1</sup> GA<sub>3</sub> and 0.01 mmol·L<sup>-1</sup> Spd effectively enhances ornamental quality and delays senescence in <em>P. forbesii</em>. The findings provide valuable insights into the hormonal regulation of flowering senescence in ornamental plants and may help guide future strategies for cut‑flower preservation and quality maintenance.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114731"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147393070","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-02-20DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114699
Kuanbo Cui , Junjie Ma , Menghan Bai , Lina Sun , Yuquan Duan , Bin Wu
VDAL is a novel plant immune-activating protein that acts as an elicitor to promote growth and stress resistance by modulating multiple hormone signaling pathways. Here, we evaluated the effects of preharvest VDAL application on defense responses and storage quality of prune fruit. Fruit were sprayed with 10 mg L⁻¹ VDAL 5 days before harvest and stored at 1–2 °C for 63 days. Quality attributes, antioxidant enzyme activities, phenylpropanoid metabolism, and oxidative stress indicators were assessed at regular intervals during storage. VDAL treatment significantly maintained postharvest quality by inhibiting softening, delaying declines in total soluble solids (TSS) and titratable acidity (TA), and preserving higher levels of ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH). Activities of key antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), and peroxidase (POD), were also markedly increased. In parallel, VDAL upregulated core enzymes in the phenylpropanoid pathway, including polyphenol oxidase (PPO), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (C4H), and 4-coumarate-CoA ligase (4CL), which increased lignin and total phenolics and flavonoids. Consistent with these changes, VDAL-treated fruit showed significantly lower superoxide anion (O₂•⁻) production, reduced hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) accumulation, and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Collectively, preharvest VDAL treatment improves prune storability by strengthening enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses, activating phenylpropanoid metabolism via upregulation of PAL, C4H, 4CL, and PPO, and suppressing oxidative stress. These findings support preharvest VDAL application as a novel, eco-friendly strategy to enhance fruit storability.
VDAL是一种新型的植物免疫激活蛋白，通过调节多种激素信号通路促进植物生长和抗逆性。本研究评价了采前施用VDAL对李子果实防御反应和贮藏品质的影响。果实在收获前5天喷洒10 mg L - 1 VDAL，在1-2°C下保存63天。在贮藏期间，定期评估品质属性、抗氧化酶活性、苯丙代谢和氧化应激指标。VDAL处理通过抑制软化，延缓总可溶性固形物（TSS）和可滴定酸度（TA）的下降，保持较高水平的抗坏血酸（AsA）和谷胱甘肽（GSH），显著维持采后品质。超氧化物歧化酶（SOD）、抗坏血酸过氧化物酶（APX）、过氧化氢酶（CAT）、谷胱甘肽还原酶（GR）和过氧化物酶（POD）等关键抗氧化酶活性也显著升高。与此同时，VDAL上调了苯丙素途径的核心酶，包括多酚氧化酶（PPO）、苯丙氨酸解氨酶（PAL）、肉桂酸4-羟化酶（C4H）和4-香豆酸-辅酶a连接酶（4CL），从而增加了木质素、总酚类物质和类黄酮。与这些变化一致的是，vdal处理过的水果显示出明显降低的超氧阴离子（O₂•毒血症）产生，减少过氧化氢（H₂O₂）积累，降低丙二醛（MDA）水平。综上所述，收获前VDAL处理通过增强酶和非酶抗氧化防御，通过上调PAL、C4H、4CL和PPO激活苯丙素代谢，以及抑制氧化应激，提高了李子的可储存性。这些发现支持采前应用VDAL作为一种新颖的、环保的策略来提高水果的储存能力。
{"title":"Preharvest VDAL treatment enhances ROS scavenging and activates phenylpropanoid metabolism to improve postharvest storability of prune (Prunus domestica) fruit","authors":"Kuanbo Cui , Junjie Ma , Menghan Bai , Lina Sun , Yuquan Duan , Bin Wu","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114699","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114699","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>VDAL is a novel plant immune-activating protein that acts as an elicitor to promote growth and stress resistance by modulating multiple hormone signaling pathways. Here, we evaluated the effects of preharvest VDAL application on defense responses and storage quality of prune fruit. Fruit were sprayed with 10 mg L⁻¹ VDAL 5 days before harvest and stored at 1–2 °C for 63 days. Quality attributes, antioxidant enzyme activities, phenylpropanoid metabolism, and oxidative stress indicators were assessed at regular intervals during storage. VDAL treatment significantly maintained postharvest quality by inhibiting softening, delaying declines in total soluble solids (TSS) and titratable acidity (TA), and preserving higher levels of ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH). Activities of key antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), and peroxidase (POD), were also markedly increased. In parallel, VDAL upregulated core enzymes in the phenylpropanoid pathway, including polyphenol oxidase (PPO), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (C4H), and 4-coumarate-CoA ligase (4CL), which increased lignin and total phenolics and flavonoids. Consistent with these changes, VDAL-treated fruit showed significantly lower superoxide anion (O₂•⁻) production, reduced hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) accumulation, and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Collectively, preharvest VDAL treatment improves prune storability by strengthening enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses, activating phenylpropanoid metabolism via upregulation of PAL, C4H, 4CL, and PPO, and suppressing oxidative stress. These findings support preharvest VDAL application as a novel, eco-friendly strategy to enhance fruit storability.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114699"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146777779","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-15Epub Date: 2026-02-18DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114684
Mei Dao , Linhan Li , Lang Liu, Xian Yin, Juan Wang, Tian Wu
The Paeonia ostii ‘Fengdan’ is an important ornamental plant with strong inherent resistance to abiotic stress. The β-ketoacyl carrier protein synthase II (KASII) in ‘Fengdan’ peony is a key enzyme in the fatty acid synthesis pathway. In this study, we focused on PoKASII and obtained transgene tobacco plants through heterologous transformation. These transgene plants were treated with 4 °C, 200 mM NaCl, and 20 % PEG-6000 to simulate low-temperature, salt, and drought stress, respectively. Overexpression of PoKASII in tobacco led to the upregulation of classic stress-responsive transcription factors, including NtCBF1 and NtNAC, indicating PoKASII acts as a positive regulator in stress-response pathways. Phenotypically, the transgene tobacco plants exhibited enhanced root elongation, and increased trichome length and density. Physiologically, the gene promoted the accumulation of osmoprotectants including proline and soluble proteins to maintain cellular osmotic balance. Concurrently, it upregulated the expression of the proline synthesis gene P5CS and downregulated the expression of the degradation-related gene ProDH, thereby promoting proline accumulation. It also enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, CAT) to scavenge reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, under abiotic stress, its expression led to a complex physiological state characterized by increased MDA content. These coordinated mechanisms collectively improved the plant’s resistance to abiotic stress. In conclusion, the PoKASII enhances the abiotic stress resistance of ‘Fengdan’ peony by upregulating antioxidant defenses and osmoprotectant synthesis, with its association with the fatty acid pathway providing a unique regulatory axis. This study revealed PoKASII-mediated resistance and provided a target for peony stress breeding.
凤丹牡丹是一种重要的观赏植物，具有较强的抗非生物胁迫能力。丰丹牡丹β-酮酰载体蛋白合成酶II （KASII）是脂肪酸合成途径中的关键酶。本研究以PoKASII为研究对象，通过异源转化获得转基因烟草植株。这些转基因植株分别在4°C、200 mM NaCl和20% PEG-6000环境下模拟低温、盐胁迫和干旱胁迫。PoKASII在烟草中的过表达导致NtCBF1和NtNAC等经典胁迫应答转录因子上调，表明PoKASII在胁迫应答通路中起正向调节作用。表型上，转基因烟草的根伸长增加，毛状体长度和密度增加。生理上，该基因促进包括脯氨酸和可溶性蛋白在内的渗透保护剂的积累，以维持细胞渗透平衡。同时上调脯氨酸合成基因P5CS的表达，下调降解相关基因ProDH的表达，从而促进脯氨酸的积累。同时提高了抗氧化酶（SOD、POD、CAT）清除活性氧的活性。此外，在非生物胁迫下，其表达导致以MDA含量增加为特征的复杂生理状态。这些协调机制共同提高了植物对非生物胁迫的抗性。综上所述，PoKASII通过上调抗氧化防御和渗透保护剂合成来增强‘丰丹’牡丹的非生物胁迫抗性，其与脂肪酸途径的关联提供了一个独特的调控轴。本研究揭示了pokasii介导的抗性，为牡丹胁迫育种提供了靶点。
{"title":"Role of the PoKASII gene in Paeonia ostii ‘Fengdan’ in resistance to abiotic stress","authors":"Mei Dao , Linhan Li , Lang Liu, Xian Yin, Juan Wang, Tian Wu","doi":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114684","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scienta.2026.114684","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The <em>Paeonia ostii</em> ‘Fengdan’ is an important ornamental plant with strong inherent resistance to abiotic stress. The β-ketoacyl carrier protein synthase II (KASII) in ‘Fengdan’ peony is a key enzyme in the fatty acid synthesis pathway. In this study, we focused on <em>PoKASII</em> and obtained transgene tobacco plants through heterologous transformation. These transgene plants were treated with 4 °C, 200 mM NaCl, and 20 % PEG-6000 to simulate low-temperature, salt, and drought stress, respectively. Overexpression of <em>PoKASII</em> in tobacco led to the upregulation of classic stress-responsive transcription factors, including <em>NtCBF1</em> and <em>NtNAC</em>, indicating <em>PoKASII</em> acts as a positive regulator in stress-response pathways. Phenotypically, the transgene tobacco plants exhibited enhanced root elongation, and increased trichome length and density. Physiologically, the gene promoted the accumulation of osmoprotectants including proline and soluble proteins to maintain cellular osmotic balance. Concurrently, it upregulated the expression of the proline synthesis gene <em>P5CS</em> and downregulated the expression of the degradation-related gene <em>ProDH</em>, thereby promoting proline accumulation. It also enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, CAT) to scavenge reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, under abiotic stress, its expression led to a complex physiological state characterized by increased MDA content. These coordinated mechanisms collectively improved the plant’s resistance to abiotic stress. In conclusion, the <em>PoKASII</em> enhances the abiotic stress resistance of ‘Fengdan’ peony by upregulating antioxidant defenses and osmoprotectant synthesis, with its association with the fatty acid pathway providing a unique regulatory axis. This study revealed <em>PoKASII</em>-mediated resistance and provided a target for peony stress breeding.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21679,"journal":{"name":"Scientia Horticulturae","volume":"358 ","pages":"Article 114684"},"PeriodicalIF":4.2,"publicationDate":"2026-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146778123","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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