Transcriptomics and comparative physiological analyses reveal hormone-mediated reprogramming during adventitious root
Xinya Lu1, Ruikang Zhang1, Weibing Zhuang2
1Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA.
Plant Physiology and Biochemistry : PPB
|April 28, 2026
Summary
Adventitious root formation in American chestnut is hindered by structural barriers, low auxin levels, and altered gene expression. Understanding these factors is key to improving propagation of this recalcitrant species.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Plant propagation
- Woody species regeneration
Background:
- Adventitious root (AR) formation is vital for woody plant propagation but inefficient in recalcitrant species like American chestnut (Castanea dentata).
- The physiological and molecular mechanisms limiting AR formation in chestnut are poorly understood, hindering effective propagation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anatomical, hormonal, metabolic, and transcriptomic factors constraining AR formation in American chestnut.
- To identify key differences compared to readily rooting hybrid poplar to pinpoint limitations in chestnut rooting capacity.
Main Methods:
- Integrated anatomical, hormonal, metabolic, and transcriptomic analyses.
- Comparative study using American chestnut and hybrid poplar as models.
- Gene expression analysis using transcriptomic and RT-qPCR techniques.
Main Results:
- Chestnut cuttings showed structural impediments (sclerenchyma ring, dense vascular cambium) and lower initial indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) levels compared to poplar.
- Metabolomic analysis revealed higher sugars and phenolic acids, but lower rooting-related amino acids and flavonoids in chestnut.
- Transcriptomic data indicated delayed or reduced expression of genes involved in meristem activation and auxin transport in chestnut, with specific gene expression patterns (e.g., CdABCG37, CdPID, CdMYB12).
Conclusions:
- Structural and hormonal imbalances, alongside altered gene expression, significantly limit adventitious root formation in American chestnut.
- Comparative analysis with hybrid poplar highlights specific molecular and physiological targets for improving chestnut propagation.
- Understanding these constraints provides a foundation for developing strategies to enhance rooting efficiency in recalcitrant woody species.
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