Regulation of Stem Strength by Lodging Resistance, Plant Secondary Cell Walls and Lignin

Submission Deadline: 31 October 2025 View: 43 Submit to Special Issue

Guest Editors

Dr. Xiaoyan Ma

Email: xiaoyan.ma@ucd.ie

Affiliation: School of Architecture, Planning and Environmental Policy, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland

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Research Interests: My research interests are to investigate the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying plant stem strength and lodging resistance, this research utilizes computational modeling and data analysis tools, such as machine learning and systems biology models, to deeply explore the key factors involved in stem strength formation.

Summary

1) The issue introduction includes the background and the importance of this research area.

In crop production, lodging not only reduces yield but also affects quality and harvest efficiency, making it a significant limiting factor in agricultural productivity. Lodging resistance is regulated by multiple factors, particularly the structure and composition of plant stems. The structure and composition of the secondary cell wall, along with the accumulation and distribution of lignin within the stem, are critical determinants of stem strength and lodging resistance. Therefore, a deep understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of secondary cell wall formation and lignin deposition in stem strength development is essential for enhancing crop lodging resistance.

2) The aim and scope of the Special Issue shall be highlighted.

This special issue aims to showcase the latest research advances in plant lodging resistance, secondary cell wall dynamics, and lignin's role in regulating stem strength. We welcome submissions of reviews, perspectives, original research, opinions, and methodological articles, with the goal of advancing understanding in this field and providing theoretical and technical support for crop improvement.

3) Suggested themes shall be listed.

Potential subjects for this topic include, but are not limited to:

· Physiological and molecular mechanisms of lodging resistance and stem strength

· Structural characteristics of secondary cell walls and their contribution to stem strength

· Gene regulatory networks of lignin biosynthesis pathways and their roles in lodging resistance

· Influence of environmental factors on secondary cell wall formation and lignin accumulation

· Biostimulants and cultivation management strategies for enhancing stem strength

· Novel breeding techniques and gene editing applications in lodging resistance

· Advanced tools and techniques for detecting and analyzing stem strength

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