The SPL transcription factor MdSPL2 positively regulates drought tolerance in apple.

Abstract

SQUAMOSA promoter-binding protein-like (SPL) transcription factors play crucial roles in plant abiotic stresses. In this study, the MdSPL2 gene was isolated from apple. Ectopic expression of MdSPL2 in Arabidopsis conferred enhanced tolerance to drought stress. Under drought stress, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content and decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation were observed. Meanwhile, Apple calli, tomato seedlings and apple plantlets with ectopic overexpression of MdSPL2 all displayed markedly reduced sensitivity to drought stress. MdSPL2 was shown to play a vital role in drought tolerance by modulating ROS production. These results demonstrate that MdSPL2 acts as a crucial positive regulator under drought stress, providing novel insights into the function of MdSPL2 in abiotic stress responses.