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Researchers uncover molecular mechanisms of cold tolerance in desert moss

A study led by Prof. Zhang Daoyuan from the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has revealed crucial molecular insights into the cold tolerance of Syntrichia caninervis, a desert moss that could play a pivotal role in Mars colonization and terraforming efforts.

The moss, known for its remarkable resilience to desiccation, freezing temperatures, and gamma radiation, has already demonstrated its ability to survive in simulated Martian conditions.

The research, in the Journal of Plant, Cell & Environment, sheds light on the moss's molecular response to cold stress—an area that had previously been underexplored. By conducting RNA sequencing on hydrated Syntrichia caninervis samples exposed to temperatures of 4°C and -4°C, the researchers examined the moss's gene expression at various time points (0, 1, 8, and 24 hours).

The researchers found that key mechanisms such as sugar and energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, and antioxidation played significant roles in the moss's ability to endure cold stress. Interestingly, they observed that most genes related to photosynthesis were up-regulated in response to the cold treatments, suggesting that Syntrichia caninervis might adapt its metabolic processes to enhance survival under low temperatures.

In particular, transcription factor analysis highlighted the role of the A-5 DREB genes, especially ScDREBA5, which was up-regulated by approximately 1,000-fold. This gene was found to be critical in the moss's response to freezing temperatures. Furthermore, overexpressing ScDREBA5 significantly enhanced freezing tolerance in the moss, opening the door for potential applications in improving cold-tolerant crops.

This breakthrough study not only enhances the scientific understanding of cold tolerance mechanisms in Syntrichia caninervis but also offers valuable insights for developing hardier crops capable of surviving in extreme environments.