Integrated multi-omics and transcriptomic analysis reveals key regulatory networks of heat stress responses in potato

Heat stress (HS) severely impacts potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) productivity worldwide, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Through an integrated analysis combining physiological, biochemical, and transcriptomic approaches, we uncovered the complex stress response network in potato plants exposed to HS. Our results revealed that HS significantly impaired photosynthetic machinery through influencing CO₂ assimilation, accompanied by compromised water relations and membrane integrity. The plants exhibited a coordinated defense response through enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (POD, SOD, CAT, APX) and modulation of key phytohormones (SA, JA, ABA, CK). Genome-wide transcriptome analysis unveiled extensive reprogramming of stress-responsive pathways (e.g. protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, plant hormone signal transduction, photosynthesis-antenna protein, α-linolenic acid metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism and glutathione metabolism), with significant alterations in genes controlling photosynthesis, hormone signaling and stress adaptation. Notably, coordinated upregulation of heat shock proteins (particularly HSP20 and HSP90) and transcription factors (especially HS transcription factor B-2b) revealed a sophisticated regulatory network central to potato thermal adaptation mechanisms. These findings reveal the complex molecular networks underlying HS responses in potato and identify potential targets for improving heat tolerance, which can provide valuable insights for developing climate-resilient potato varieties.