Integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics reveal key metabolic pathway responses in Mentha Piperita L. under selenite stress.

ABSTRACT: Selenium (Se) is a beneficial micronutrient that, at optimal concentrations, supports plant growth, stress resistance, and secondary metabolism. However, its regulatory effects are highly dose-dependent. This study aims to investigate how varying concentrations of sodium selenite (Na₂SeO₃) affect the physiological, transcriptomic, and metabolomic responses of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.). Specifically, we hypothesize that low doses promoting beneficial effects and high doses inducing toxicity. Our results demonstrate that treatment with 30 mg/L Na₂SeO₃ (Se30) significantly enhanced plant growth, photosynthetic efficiency, and antioxidant enzyme activities and secondary metabolite production, including flavonoids. In contrast, 60 mg/L Na_2<

SUBMITTER: Deng G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12632068 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature