Genetius

The study demonstrates that ethylene signaling contributes to host resistance against the root parasitic plant Phelipanche aegyptiaca, as both water stress and parasitism activate ethylene responses in Arabidopsis roots. Application of the ethylene precursor ACC reduced parasite attachment, and mutants in ethylene signaling components (ETR1, CTR1) showed altered tolerance, highlighting ethylene-mediated defenses as a potential strategy for crop protection.

The study finely dissected shoot stem cell–enriched tissues from maize and Arabidopsis thaliana and optimized single‑cell RNA‑seq protocols to reliably capture CLAVATA3 and WUSCHEL‑expressing cells. Cross‑species comparison and functional validation, including spatial transcriptomics and mutant analyses, revealed conserved ribosome‑associated RNA‑binding proteins and sugar‑kinase families as key regulators linked to shoot development and yield traits.