Comparative Physiological and Transcriptome Analysis Reveal the Molecular Mechanism of Melatonin in Regulating Salt Tolerance in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.).

ABSTRACT: As a high-quality legume forage, alfalfa is restricted by various abiotic stresses during its growth and development. Melatonin is a multifunctional signaling molecule that involves in plant defense against multiple stresses. However, little is known about its downstream signaling pathway and regulatory mechanisms in salt stress of alfalfa. In this study, we investigated the protective effects and key regulatory pathways of melatonin on alfalfa under salt tolerance. The results showed that melatonin promoted the growth of alfalfa seedlings under salt stress, as demonstrated by higher plant height, leaf area, and fresh weight. Melatonin treatment resulted in an increase in the photosynthetic capacity and starch content of alfalfa. Moreover, melatonin decreased cell membrane damage and react

SUBMITTER: Li S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9326453 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature