Stress Knowledge Map

We are pleased to highlight a recent collaborative study that utilized the Stress Knowledge Map (SKM) to investigate the interplay between calcium and redox signalling in barley. The research, titled "Ca²⁺-dependent H₂O₂ response in roots and leaves of barley—a transcriptomic investigation," was published in BMC Plant Biology on February 20, 2025.

Researchers at the University of Bonn in Germany focused on understanding how H₂O₂-induced Ca²⁺ signals influence gene expression in barley's roots and leaves. Through transcriptomic analysis (RNA-seq) analyses, they identified genes whose expression was altered upon H₂O₂ treatment, particularly under conditions where Ca²⁺ transients were inhibited using LaCl₃. This approach allowed them to pinpoint Ca²⁺-dependent H₂O₂-responsive genes: 331 in leaves and 1,320 in roots.

To further explore the regulatory pathways connecting known Ca²⁺-related genes to these newly identified H₂O₂-responsive genes, researchers at the National Institute of Biology utilized SKM's Comprehensive Knowledge Network (CKN). The network analyses highlighted several transcription factors as central components in the crosstalk between H₂O₂ and Ca²⁺ signaling pathways, which may play significant roles in mediating responses to H₂O₂ via Ca²⁺ signaling.

This study underscores the utility of the SKM platform in plant stress research, demonstrating how its integration can reveal complex signaling networks and identify potential targets for improving stress resistance in crops.

We encourage researchers to explore the SKM's tools and resources for their investigations into plant stress responses.

Read the full article here: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12870-025-06248-9.