Work

Overexpression of CmDUF239-1 Enhances Cold Tolerance in Melon Seedlings by Reinforcing Antioxidant Defense and Activating the ICE-CBF-COR Pathway

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Low-temperature stress is a major factor that limits the productivity and geographical distribution of melon (Cucumis melo L.). This study elucidates that CmDUF239-1 is a positive regulator of cold stress, and its underlying mechanisms are investigated using root-specific overexpression lines. Seedlings overexpressing CmDUF239-1 exhibited increased biomass and reduced relative electrical conductivity under cold stress. CmDUF239-1 overexpression promoted the accumulation of soluble sugar and proline, which was accompanied by enhanced activity of the proline biosynthetic enzyme Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthase (P5CS) and suppressed activity of the proline-degrading enzyme proline dehydrogenase (PDH). Molecular analysis revealed that CmDUF239-1 overexpression upregulated antioxidant enzyme-related genes, sugar metabolism related genes, and proline-related genes. Furthermore, it activated key genes in the ICE-CBF-COR signaling pathway, including CmCBF1, CmCBF2, and the downstream effector gene CmCOR413-2. In conclusion, the CmDUF239-1 gene enhances melon cold tolerance by modulating antioxidant defense, enhancing osmolyte (sugar and proline) metabolism and activating a core signaling pathway. This study not only characterizes a novel function for a DUF family gene but also provides a promising candidate gene for the genetic improvement of cold resilience in melon and other related crops.

Source: Agronomy

DOI: 10.3390/agronomy15122725

Authors: Yang Li, Zhanming Tan, Yanjun Liu, Xiaoye Wu, Jin Zhu, Yuquan Peng

Institutions: Yangtze University, Tarim University

Language: English

Topic: Plant Stress Responses and Tolerance

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137