Metabolomic analyses of highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) cultivars revealed mechanisms of resistance to aluminum toxicity

Abstract Aluminum (Al) is an important factor that limits plant growth under acidic soil conditions. However, several species developed distinct mechanisms limit the damage caused by high Al concentrations. In highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), resistance are not fully understood. This study was designed to evaluate effect of toxicity on roots and leaves genotypes with contrasting [Star (Al-sensitive) Camellia Cargo (Al-resistant)] identify main molecular physiological strategies underpinning adaptive stress responses in nutrient solution. After 48 h treatment, reduced form ascorbate (ASC) higher roots, but unchanged compared control. We also observed decreased root exudation oxalate Al-treated sensitive cultivar Star throughout treatment period. resistant (Camellia), increased 2.4- 2.8-fold at 24 h, respectively. differentially affected enzyme activity gene expression tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle enzymes. NAD-dependent malate dehydrogenase (NAD-MDH) whereas Citrate synthase (CS) Al-resistant diminished increasing afterwards, without variation CS expression, initial time point (t = 0). during exposure. NADP-dependent (NADP-MDH) showed Cargo, decreased, activation state NADP-MDH increased. The genes encoding TCA enzymes did differ significantly Al-sensitive conclusion, organic anions, particularly oxalate, plays role whilst elevated levels ASC contribute Al-resistance exhibited Cargo.