Revitalizing pak choi: unveiling the genetic mechanisms behind drought tolerance
Chinese Academy of SciencesScientists have discovered a genetic mechanism in pak choi that boosts drought tolerance by regulating ascorbic acid levels. By silencing the BcSRC2 gene, researchers found that the plant’s ascorbic acid content decreased, reducing its drought resistance. Conversely, overexpressing BcSRC2 raised ascorbic acid levels, enhancing the plant’s tolerance. This finding could guide future breeding strategies to help crops cope with water scarcity.