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Updated: Jan 7, 2026
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Lignin Down-regulation of Zea mays via dsRNAi and Klason Lignin Analysis
Published on: July 23, 2014
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Exploring Structure-Function Relationship of Lignin Derivatives to Enhance Its Biostimulant Potential.
Ruonan Shi1, Dandan Wu1, Sehrish Manan1,2
1Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China.
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
|January 2, 2026
Summary
Bamboo kraft lignin derivative (OBKL) acts as a potent biostimulant, enhancing maize growth, water uptake, and stress tolerance. Its effectiveness is linked to molecular weight and hydrophilic group modifications.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Biotechnology
- Plant Science
Background:
- Lignin, a complex biopolymer, shows potential as a plant biostimulant.
- Understanding lignin's structure-function relationship is crucial for optimizing its application.
- Maize (Zea mays) is a vital global crop susceptible to environmental stresses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structure-function relationship of bamboo kraft lignin (BKL) and its modified derivative (OBKL) as biostimulants in maize.
- To evaluate the impact of OBKL on maize seedling growth, physiological responses, and stress tolerance.
- To identify molecular mechanisms underlying OBKL's biostimulant effects.
Main Methods:
- Application of BKL and OBKL to maize seedlings.
- Measurement of root elongation, photosynthesis, and transpiration rates.
- Transcriptomics and Gene Ontology (GO) analysis to identify regulated genes and pathways.
Main Results:
- OBKL significantly increased root elongation (50%), photosynthesis (65%), and transpiration (106%) due to enhanced hydrophilic groups.
- Low-molecular-weight OBKL promoted chlorophyll synthesis and stress resilience; high-molecular-weight lignin inhibited growth.
- OBKL upregulated 1333 genes, including transcription factors (AP2/ERF, WRKY, MYB, NAC) involved in growth and stress.
- Plant hormone signal transduction was identified as a key pathway regulated by OBKL.
Conclusions:
- OBKL is an effective biostimulant for improving maize productivity and adaptability.
- Modifications enhancing hydrophilicity and reducing molecular weight optimize OBKL's biostimulant activity.
- Lignin's biostimulant effects are mediated through the regulation of key plant growth and stress response pathways.
