Starch accounts for approximately 70% of the dry seed weight and is the major factor directly influencing maize quality and yield. However, the key regulatory gene for starch synthesis is remain unclear. Here, we identified the novel maize gene, ZmSSPR1, which could regulate the starch synthesis. The finding suggest that ZmSSRP1 acts as a potential regulator of starch synthesis, providing new insight for molecular breeding of high-yielding high-quality maize.

Soil salinity is a primary abiotic issue affecting yield in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (c-GMP) plays an indispensable role in plant response to salt stress. To accelerate understanding in improving the yield of tomato under salt stress, this study provides valuable information for understanding the functions of the c-GMP in salt stress of tomato.

We identified a WRKY transcription factor MdWRKY75, which was localised in the nucleus. MdWRKY75 could interact with the promoter of MdMYB1 to promote anthocyanin accumulation by binding to the promoter of it. These findings provided novel insights into the role of a WRKY transcription factor in regulating anthocyanin accumulation in apple (Malus domestica L.).

The tomato plant is an important crop at the global level and the limitation of water availability is one of the rising problems caused by climate change. We believe that improving plant water status through controlled modification of stomatal conductance using UV radiation might be an interesting tool to address the problem of water limitation. This can be important also in greenhouses, where the screening of natural UV due to plastic/glass coverings might alter the gas exchange performance of plants.

Water is essential for crop production, and global warming is aggravating the threat of drought. To overcome this, we evaluated the potential of salicylic acid, a natural plant product, to induce drought tolerance in radish; salicylic acid was efficient in reversing the reduction in radish production at mild drought. This discovery will help farmers to avoid crop losses at moderate drought and to ensure food security worldwide.

Endogenous melatonin content in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds may be used as a marker of cold stress tolerance. Thus, eliminating low melatonin seed varieties from the breeding programs could significantly improve their effectiveness and save considerable time, money and labour.