Investigating the Function of TaUBX57 in Enhancing Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Wheat

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), a crucial global food crop, provides approximately 20% of daily protein and caloric intake globally. However, its production is increasingly threatened by abiotic stressors, especially drought and salinity, which are exacerbated by climate change. These stressors adversely affect plant growth, development, and yield, necessitating the development of stress-tolerant varieties. This study investigated the role of TaUBX57, a U-box E3 ubiquitin ligase, in enhancing stress tolerance in wheat. Functional domain analysis of TaUBX57 confirmed the presence of a conserved U-box and a protein kinase domain, suggesting its involvement in protein ubiquitination and stress responses. TaUBX57-overexpressing transgenic Arabidopsis lines exhibited significantly improved germination rates, root growth, and survival under drought and salt stress conditions. TaUBX57 overexpression enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced the expression of oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde. These findings highlight the potential role of TaUBX57 in modulating stress-responsive pathways and enhancing abiotic stress tolerance, offering a promising avenue for developing more resilient wheat varieties through genetic engineering.