In the heart of Italy, researchers at the Free University of Bozen/Bolzano are unlocking new secrets to enhance crop resilience, a discovery that could revolutionize agriculture and indirectly boost the energy sector. Led by Sonia Monterisi, a team of scientists has delved into the molecular effects of protein hydrolysates (PHs) derived from the Malvaceae family on tomato plants, particularly under nitrogen-deficient conditions. Their findings, published in the journal ‘Plant Stress’ (Stress in Plants), offer a glimpse into the future of sustainable farming and its potential to support the energy sector.
Nitrogen is a critical nutrient for plant growth, but its scarcity poses significant challenges to crop development. The research team investigated how a Malvaceae-based protein hydrolysate (C) and its medium molecular weight fraction (F2) influence tomato plants under both optimal and suboptimal nitrogen conditions. Using advanced omics techniques, they uncovered distinct molecular responses that could pave the way for more efficient and resilient crops.
Under optimal nitrogen conditions, the Malvaceae-based protein hydrolysate (C) upregulated genes associated with photosynthesis, aging, and abiotic stress responses. This suggests that the treatment enhances the plant’s metabolism and overall resilience. “Our findings indicate that C not only boosts plant growth but also prepares the plant to better withstand environmental stresses,” Monterisi explains. This could be a game-changer for farmers, allowing them to grow healthier crops with less nitrogen, a resource-intensive fertilizer.
The study also revealed that both C and F2 modulated genes involved in hormone signalling, particularly auxin and cytokinin, and Circadian rhythm pathways. Under suboptimal nitrogen, C influenced hormone signalling and light response genes, potentially alleviating nitrogen deficiency stress. “This is exciting because it shows that these treatments can help plants adapt to nitrogen scarcity, which is a common challenge in agriculture,” Monterisi adds.
Metabolomic analysis showed that under low nitrogen, C increased fatty acids, amino acids, and phenolic compounds linked to stress protection, while F2 had a milder effect. The multi-omics analysis further showed that C impacted nitrogen metabolism by upregulating nitrate transporters (NRT1) and promoting metabolic reprogramming, whereas F2 primarily influenced hormonal signalling and Circadian rhythm. This suggests that C might be more effective than F2 in optimizing nitrogen use efficiency.
The implications of this research are vast. As the global population grows, so does the demand for food and energy. Sustainable farming practices that enhance crop resilience and reduce the need for nitrogen fertilizers can significantly lower agricultural carbon emissions. This, in turn, supports the energy sector’s efforts to transition to cleaner, more sustainable practices.
Monterisi and her team’s work highlights the potential of biostimulants like Malvaceae-based protein hydrolysates to revolutionize agriculture. By understanding and leveraging the molecular mechanisms behind these treatments, farmers can grow more resilient crops with less environmental impact. This research opens the door to future developments in the field, promising a future where agriculture and energy sectors work hand in hand to create a more sustainable world.