A novel MsEOBI-MsPAL1 module enhances salinity stress tolerance, floral
scent emission, and seed yield in alfalfa
Abstract
Alfalfa ( Medicago sativa L.) is a crucial and widely grown
forage legume that faces yield challenges due to salinity stress. In
this study, an R2R3-MYB transcription factor (TF), MsEOBI was
characterized from alfalfa. Its function and gene regulatory pathways
were studied in alfalfa seedlings. The nuclear-localized MsEOBI acts as
a transcriptional activator. MsEOBI enhances salinity tolerance of
alfalfa by promoting flavonoids and lignin biosynthesis, as well as
scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). MsEOBI also promote pollinator
attraction and seed yield by activating volatile phenylpropanoid
biosynthesis. Yeast one-hybrid, dual-luciferase, and ChIP-qPCR assays
showed that MsEOBI binds directly to the promoter of MsPAL1, a
key enzyme in the phenylpropanoid pathway to activate its expression.
Overexpression of MsPAL1 in alfalfa enhances salinity tolerance.
These findings shed light on the functions of the MsEOBI-MsPAL1 module
in alfalfa and offer valuable genetic resources for the breeding of salt
stress-resistant varieties in the future.