EGTA reduces the inflorescence stem mechanical strength of herbaceous peony by modifying secondary wall biosynthesis

Abstract

Cell biology: calcium makes peonies stand tall Calcium may hold the key to growing peonies with stronger, straighter stems, by enabling the construction of reinforced cell walls, which impart structural support. Peonies are a popular kind of cut flowers, and those with straight stems are more sought after. Although recent studies have hinted at the importance of calcium ions, the mechanism was unclear. To investigate, Jun Tao at Yangzhou University in Jiangsu, China, and colleagues treated herbaceous peonies with ethyl glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA), a chemical that binds to and removes calcium ions. This resulted in the reduced deposition of a structural protein called lignin in the walls of xylem cells and more pliable stems. Further analysis revealed altered expression of 43 proteins, including those involved in calcium-ion sensing and construction of ‘secondary’ walls in xylem cells within the stem.