RGF signaling bridges root development and nonlethal thermal stress adaptation

Our study shows that nonlethal high temperature (31°C) restricts root growth by suppressing the RGF–RGFR–PLT2 developmental pathway rather than by triggering canonical heat-shock responses. Exogenous RGF peptide treatment restores the root meristem and promotes lateral root growth under prolonged heat, suggesting a strategy to improve root thermotolerance.

Hsiao Y-C, Lai J-K, Shiue S-Y, Yamada M. (2026) RGF signaling bridges root development and nonlethal thermal stress adaptation. New Phytologist, 2026 Sep;251(5):2656-2671