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Mechanosensing antagonizes ethylene signaling to promote root gravitropism in rice

Author

Listed:
  • Han-Qing Wang

    (Nanjing Agricultural University)

  • Xing-Yu Zhao

    (Nanjing Agricultural University)

  • Zhong Tang

    (Nanjing Agricultural University)

  • Xin-Yuan Huang

    (Nanjing Agricultural University)

  • Peng Wang

    (Nanjing Agricultural University)

  • Wenhua Zhang

    (Nanjing Agricultural University)

  • Yunhui Zhang

    (Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences)

  • Sheng Luan

    (University of California)

  • Fang-Jie Zhao

    (Nanjing Agricultural University)

Abstract

Root gravitropism relies on gravity perception by the root cap and requires tightly regulated phytohormone signaling. Here, we isolate a rice mutant that displays root coiling in hydroponics but normal gravitropic growth in soil. We identify COILING ROOT IN WATER 1 (CRW1) encoding an ETHYLENE-INSENSITIVE3 (EIN3)-BINDING F-BOX PROTEIN (OsEBF1) as the causative gene for the mutant phenotype. We show that the OsCRW1-EIN3 LIKE 1 and 2 (OsEIL1/2)-ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR 82 (OsERF82) module controls the production of reactive oxygen species in the root tip, subsequently impacting root cap stability, polar localization of PIN-FORMED 2 (OsPIN2), symmetric distribution of auxin, and ultimately gravitropic growth of roots. The OsEIL1/2-OsERF82 ethylene signaling module is effectively impeded by applying gentle mechanical resistance to root tips, including growing in water-saturated paddy soil. We further show that mechanosensing-induced calcium signaling is required and sufficient for antagonizing the ethylene signaling pathway. This study has revealed previously unanticipated interplay among ethylene, auxin, and mechanosensing in the control of plant gravitropism.

Suggested Citation

  • Han-Qing Wang & Xing-Yu Zhao & Zhong Tang & Xin-Yuan Huang & Peng Wang & Wenhua Zhang & Yunhui Zhang & Sheng Luan & Fang-Jie Zhao, 2025. "Mechanosensing antagonizes ethylene signaling to promote root gravitropism in rice," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-17, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-59047-z
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-59047-z
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