Rootstocks modulates the gene expression in sweet cherry crop

14 Nov 2023
1079

Grafting is a commonly used practice in horticulture, mainly employed to manage plant growth, increase fruit yield and quality, and improve plant resistance to biotic and abiotic challenges. Indeed, the use of the Gisela 6 rootstock, which is recognised for its greater dwarfing characteristics than commonly used rootstocks in China, facilitates the achievement of higher crop yields.

This can be attributed to the greater abundance of flower buds, which consequently results in a higher fruit load. Researchers at the Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences (China) analysed gene expression as a function of the rootstock adopted.

Xuwei Duan

For this study, the Tieton/Landing 2 and Tieton/Gisela 6 combinations were used by analysing 4-year-old plants. Thanks to this study, the PaMYBF gene was identified and at the same time it was noted that the expression of PaMYBF was significantly higher in the phloem tissue of the scion when grafted onto the Gisela 6 rootstock.

Preliminary results confirmed the correlation between the expression of this particular gene and the flowering process. Transcriptome analysis revealed considerable variations in the expression patterns of hormone-associated genes in the various rootstock and scion combinations.

In this study, it was also found that the expression of the PaMYBF gene can be increased by the exogenous application of phytohormones such as jasmonates. The repercussions of this increased gene expression are expected to have a favourable effect on the number of flowering buds, but targeted studies need to be continued to better understand this phenomenon.

Source: Xuwei Duan, Rootstock induced PaMYBF participating floral bud formation in sweet cherry, IX International Cherry Simposium, https://2021.cherries.org.cn/replayEn.html

Images: IX International Cherry Simposium


Melissa Venturi
University of Bologna (IT)


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

X-disease: how Oregon’s cherry growers and OSU Extension are working together to stop the spread

Crop protection

08 Apr 2025

X-disease is threatening Oregon’s cherry orchards, reducing fruit quality and profits. OSU Extension supports growers through research, bilingual education, and preventive strategies to safeguard cherry crops and protect the region’s agricultural economy.

Agricooler: innovative new covers for heat management

Covers

13 Jun 2024

This innovative fabric, patented by the Spanish company Agralia, incorporates aluminium microparticles to improve cold storage. The microparticles in Agricooler block infrared radiation, which is responsible for heat transmission.

In evidenza

Native cherry trees better support local moths in Massachusetts landscapes

Crop protection

01 Jul 2025

A scientific study confirms native moths thrive best on cherry trees native to Massachusetts. Non-native species slow growth and raise mortality in larvae. Native trees are crucial for preserving biodiversity and supporting birds and insects in gardens and cities.

How genetics shapes cherry flavor: from sweet sorbitol to tart malic acid

Breeding

01 Jul 2025

Researchers from Clemson University and Spain’s CITA discovered the genetic basis of sweetness and acidity in sweet cherries. With QTL mapping and haplotype analysis, breeders can now develop better-tasting, more stable varieties tailored to consumer preferences in Europe.

Tag Popolari