MsWRKY49 Modulates Pollen Tube Elongation in Response to Boron Deficiency by Regulating Reactive Oxygen Species Homeostasis in Alfalfa.

ABSTRACT: Boron, an essential micronutrient, plays a crucial role in plant reproductive processes. Boron deficiency is widespread in many regions and significantly reduces alfalfa (Medicago sativa) seed yield, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying its impact on reproductive organ development remain elusive. This study found that boron deficiency inhibited alfalfa pollen tube elongation and was accompanied by elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the pollen tube. The application of exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and ascorbic acid (AsA) indicated that maintaining ROS homeostasis was crucial for boron-mediated pollen tube elongation. Based on phylogenetic tree analysis and expression pattern analysis, MsWRKY49 was identified as a central regulator responding to lo

SUBMITTER: Wang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12906839 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature