The transcriptional dynamic landscape map of pearl millet in response to abiotic stress provides new insights into the responses of plants to stress

With the increasing frequency of extreme environmental events and the expansion of the global population, there is an urgent need to explore more stress-resistant genes to develop crops that can withstand extreme weather, to maximize agricultural production. Pearl millet, a significant cereal crop globally, demonstrates remarkable tolerance in harsh environments that are unsuitable for other cereal crops. It possesses unique stress-tolerant genetic resources distinct from those observed in conventional model plants. In our research, we conducted an examination of the transcriptome of pearl millet leaves and roots in response to high temperature, drought, and salt stress at eight time points. This investigation led to the construction of a comprehensive transcriptional landscape illustrating the intricate mechanisms underlying pearl millet's response to abiotic stress. Cutin, suberin, wax biosynthesis, abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis, and phosphatidylinositol signaling pathways have significant effects on the response of pearl millet to high temperature, drought, and salt stress, respectively. Although the same pathway was identified in the three treatments, their response to stress differs. Under different stresses, the cargos transported by the ABC transporter are different, and the signaling substances that activate the MAPK signaling pathway are also different. In conclusion, our research offers significant transcriptome mapping that sheds light on the response mechanisms of pearl millet to abiotic stresses. This study also highlights key genes that can be targeted for enhancing crop improvement efforts.