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Physiological characteristics during the formation of aromatic components in xylem of Aquilaria sinensis induced by exogenous substances

Summary

Agarwood, a valuable aromatic wood, can be artificially produced by applying special chemical and fungal treatments to Aquilaria sinensis trees. This study found that these treatments trigger the tree’s natural defense systems, increasing production of protective hormones and enzymes that promote the formation of aromatic compounds. By understanding these physiological responses, scientists can optimize agarwood production techniques and reduce pressure on wild populations of this endangered tree species.

Background

Aquilaria sinensis is a valuable tree that produces agarwood in its xylem following external damage or stress. Natural agarwood formation is time-consuming and expensive, making artificial induction techniques essential for protecting wild populations and meeting commercial demand.

Objective

To investigate the physiological and biochemical changes in A. sinensis xylem during agarwood induction using different combinations of plant growth regulators, inorganic salts, and fungi, and to elucidate the relationships between physiological properties and aromatic component formation.

Results

Defense hormones (JA, SA, ACC, ABA) significantly increased while growth hormones (GA, IAA) decreased after induction. Antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, POD) showed initial elevation then decline. MDA content decreased over time while proline increased then decreased. Thirty-three aromatic components were identified with terpenes, aromatics, and chromones as primary constituents, showing significant variation among treatments.

Conclusion

Exogenous induction substances activate plant defense mechanisms through coordinated hormonal signaling and antioxidant responses that promote aromatic component biosynthesis. The antagonistic relationship between defense and growth hormones regulates the trade-off essential for agarwood formation, with findings suggesting potential for optimizing artificial induction techniques through hormone management.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Plant Science,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1461048 | PMID: 39628533
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