<i>PIN1a</i>-mediated auxin release from rootstock cotyledon contributes to healing in watermelon as revealed by seeds soaking-VIGS and cotyledon grafting.

ABSTRACT: Grafting is a propagation method extensively utilized in cucurbits. However, the mechanisms underlying graft healing remain poorly understood. This study employed self-grafted watermelon plants to investigate how rootstock cotyledon affects healing. The complete removal of rootstock cotyledons significantly hindered scion growth, as evidenced by reductions in scion fresh weight and the area of true leaves. Physiological assessments revealed reduced callus formation, weaker adhesion forces, a more pronounced necrotic layer, and decreased rates of xylem and phloem reconnection at the graft junction when rootstock cotyledons were completely removed. Additionally, auxin levels at the rootstock graft junction notably decreased following cotyledon removal. In contrast, the exogenous application

SUBMITTER: Wang X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11883227 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature