The study shows that the SnRK1 catalytic subunit KIN10 directs tissue-specific growth‑defense programs in Arabidopsis thaliana by reshaping transcriptomes. kin10 knockout mutants exhibit altered root transcription, reduced root growth, and weakened defense against Pseudomonas syringae, whereas KIN10 overexpression activates shoot defense pathways, increasing ROS and salicylic acid signaling at the cost of growth.

The study used Azo‑solubilized microsomal extraction combined with iTRAQ proteomics to identify membrane proteins whose abundance is reduced in phosphate‑limited roots of the Arabidopsis cnih5 mutant, revealing several transporters including PHT1s. Interaction of AtCNIH5 with these cargoes was confirmed via yeast split‑ubiquitin and plant tripartite split‑GFP assays, showing that AtCNIH5 operates as a low‑Pi‑responsive ER export hub that enhances growth under phosphate deficiency.