The β-galactosidase gene AtrBGAL2 regulates Akebia trifoliata fruit cracking

The impact of abandoned iron ore on the endophytic bacterial communities and functions in the root systems of three major crops in the local area

Introduction

Global mining activities have significant impacts on ecosystems, but most studies have focused only on the relationship between soil physicochemical properties and microbial diversity in soils. The present study provides an insight into the effects of mining activities on soil physico-chemical properties and endophytic bacterial community composition in the rhizosphere of three different crops.

Methods

Musa basjoo Siebold L., Amygdalus persica L., and Triticum aestivum L. were collected from the inter-root soils and plant roots to determine the soil physicochemical properties and endophytic bacterial communities in the root system.

Results

The results showed that mining resulted in soil acidification, altered trace element content and increased organic carbon. There was an increase in the Ascomycota and Actinobacteria phylum of crop root bacteria. Interestingly, the chao1 and shannon indices of the root endophytes of the mining crop were significantly elevated compared to the contro (p < 0.05). Among them, Musa basjoo Siebold showed the highest level of community richness in the mining environment. The mining environment resulted in functional enrichment of histidine kinases and oxidoreductases in the bacterial community. The total potassium (TK) content in the soil, as well as the Fe and Pb content, were positively correlated with the α-diversity index and Streptomyces. Zn and Ti content were significantly negatively correlated with the α-diversity index.

Discussion

This study provides data support for exploring the mechanisms of plant response to the mining environment and developing ecological restoration strategies for mining areas.

Deciphering the Genetic and Biochemical Drivers of Fruit Cracking in Akebia trifoliata

This study investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying fruit cracking in Akebia trifoliata, a phenomenon that significantly impacts fruit quality and marketability. Through comprehensive physiological, biochemical, and transcriptomic analyses, we identified key changes in cell wall components and enzymatic activities during fruit ripening. Our results revealed that ventral suture tissues exhibit significantly elevated activities of polygalacturonase (PG) and β-galactosidase compared to dorsoventral line tissues, indicating their crucial roles in cell wall degradation and structural weakening. The cellulose content in VS tissues peaked early and declined during ripening, while DL tissues maintained relatively stable cellulose levels, highlighting the importance of cellulose dynamics in fruit cracking susceptibility. Transcriptomic analysis revealed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with pectin biosynthesis and catabolism, cell wall organization, and oxidoreductase activities, indicating significant transcriptional regulation. Key genes like AKT032945 (pectinesterase) and AKT045678 (polygalacturonase) were identified as crucial for cell wall loosening and pericarp dehiscence. Additionally, expansin-related genes AKT017642, AKT017643, and AKT021517 were expressed during critical stages, promoting cell wall loosening. Genes involved in auxin-activated signaling and oxidoreductase activities, such as AKT022903 (auxin response factor) and AKT054321 (peroxidase), were also differentially expressed, suggesting roles in regulating cell wall rigidity. Moreover, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified key gene modules correlated with traits like pectin lyase activity and soluble pectin content, pinpointing potential targets for genetic manipulation. Our findings offer valuable insights into the molecular basis of fruit cracking in A. trifoliata, laying a foundation for breeding programs aimed at developing crack-resistant varieties to enhance fruit quality and commercial viability.