Stimulatory Effect of Aluminum in Root Development of <i>Pogostemon cablin</i>: Integration of ROS Homeostasis and Gene Expression Networks.

ABSTRACT: On acid soils, aluminum (Al³⁺) is typically toxic to plants, though certain species like Pogostemon cablin (patchouli) show growth stimulation. This study reveals that Al functions as a root development stimulant in patchouli under acidic conditions. Treatment with 1.0 mM AlCl₃ for 34 days significantly enhanced root architecture, increasing total root length by 172.12% and root dry weight by 161.75%, without affecting shoot biomass. Structural analysis showed Al accumulation in root tip meristems and lateral root primordia, triggering a 103.77% increase in meristem activity and a 111.9% promotion of cell elongation. Physiological assays showed that Al treatment reduced H₂O₂ and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels by 49.2% and 67.6%, respectively

SUBMITTER: Deng Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12564486 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature