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    01 June 2026, Volume 59 Issue 11
    CROP GENETICS & BREEDING·GERMPLASM RESOURCES·MOLECULAR GENETICS
    Screening and Comprehensive Evaluation of Low Nitrogen Tolerance Germplasm Resources in Spring Wheat
    GAO YaFeng, YANG JiaNing, SUN XueDi, CHEN JiaJia, DANG ZhiJuan, WANG JunCheng, ZHANG Hong, MA XiaoLe, YAO LiRong, MENG YaXiong, SI ErJing, LI BaoChun, WANG HuaJun
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2299-2313.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.001
    Abstract ( 38 )   HTML ( 4 )   PDF (4017KB) ( 42 )   Save
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    【Objective】Excessive dependence on nitrogen (N) fertilizer to achieve high crop yields in modern agricultural production has increased production costs and caused serious environmental problems, such as soil acidification and water eutrophication. Screening low-nitrogen-tolerant wheat cultivars is a key approach to improving nitrogen use efficiency and significantly reducing nitrogen fertilizer input. This study aimed to elucidate the low-nitrogen tolerance characteristics of spring wheat, provide germplasm resources, and establish a theoretical basis for gene mining and breeding of low-nitrogen-tolerant wheat varieties.【Method】A total of 285 spring wheat accessions were used as experimental materials. Seedling-stage germination bag experiments were conducted under low nitrogen (0.05 mmol·L-1) and normal nitrogen (5 mmol·L-1) treatments. Nine traits, including seedling length, root length, shoot dry weight, and root dry weight, were measured, and the low-nitrogen tolerance coefficient for each trait was calculated. A comprehensive evaluation of seedling-stage low-nitrogen tolerance was performed using principal component analysis and the membership function method. Selected materials were further subjected to precise field screening and identification. Representative low-nitrogen-tolerant and nitrogen-sensitive materials were used to analyze changes in nitrogen uptake, assimilation, and transport-related enzyme activities under low-nitrogen stress, as well as grain quality traits. 【Result】Based on comprehensive evaluation using principal component analysis and the membership function method, the 285 spring wheat accessions were classified into five groups. Group Ⅰ consisted of extremely nitrogen-sensitive materials (5 accessions) with D values ranging from 0.14 to 0.20, including WN-269, WN-247, WN-244, WN-149, and WN-249. Group Ⅱ included nitrogen-sensitive materials (84 accessions) with D values of 0.20 to 0.34. Group Ⅲ comprised moderately nitrogen-efficient materials (162 accessions) with D values of 0.34 to 0.51. Group Ⅳ consisted of low-nitrogen-tolerant materials (29 accessions) with D values of 0.51 to 0.61. Group Ⅴ included extremely low-nitrogen-tolerant materials (5 accessions) with D values of 0.61 to 0.70, namely WN-49, WN-186, WN-237, WN-294, and WN-235. Five extremely nitrogen-sensitive and five extremely low-nitrogen-tolerant accessions were selected for field identification, resulting in the final identification of one nitrogen-sensitive accession (WN-269) and one low-nitrogen-tolerant accession (WN-235). Analysis of nitrate reductase, glutamate synthase, and glutamine synthetase activities showed that enzyme activities in leaves significantly decreased under low-nitrogen stress, while enzyme activities in the low-nitrogen-tolerant material were significantly higher than those in the nitrogen-sensitive material.【Conclusion】One low-nitrogen-tolerant wheat accession and one nitrogen-sensitive accession were successfully identified. A comprehensive evaluation system for low-nitrogen tolerance at both seedling and adult stages in wheat was established, and root surface area, root volume, and root dry weight were identified as core indicators for evaluating low-nitrogen tolerance.

    Screening of GmBI-1 Interacting Proteins and Functional Analysis of GmNod44 in Soybean Nodulation and Nitrogen Fixation
    KE DanXia, HOU ShiBo, ZHOU ZhaoYuan, LIN JiaNuo, SONG XiaoLi, ZHANG KeXin
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2314-2324.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.002
    Abstract ( 23 )   HTML ( 11 )   PDF (3294KB) ( 21 )   Save
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    【Objective】Soybean is an important source of plant protein and a key crop in cereal-legume intercropping systems. Unlocking its biological nitrogen fixation potential holds profound significance for promoting sustainable ecological agriculture. Our previous research identified a soybean apoptosis inhibitor, GmBI-1, which forms a heteroprotein complex with the soybean nodulation factor receptor GmNFR1α and plays a positive regulatory role during early rhizobial infection. This study aims to screen for proteins interacting with GmBI-1 using a yeast two-hybrid library and investigate their functions in the nodulation and nitrogen fixation process, thereby providing a theoretical basis for further elucidating the molecular regulatory network of symbiotic nitrogen fixation in soybean. 【Method】 The yeast two-hybrid system was employed to screen an AD-cDNA library from soybean roots and root nodules, aiming to isolate and identify potential interacting proteins of GmBI-1. The identified interacting proteins were annotated and functionally predicted, followed by analysis of their tissue-specific expression. Taking one of the library proteins, GmNod44, as the research target, bioinformatics analysis was conducted on it. Further validation of the interaction between GmBI-1 and GmNod44 was performed using yeast two-hybrid retesting (Y2H) and tobacco in vivo luciferase complementation imaging (LCI) assays. Additionally, co-localization of GmBI-1 and GmNod44 proteins was observed in Arabidopsis protoplasts. Moreover, GmNod44 was overexpressed using Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root transformation in soybean to investigate its biological function in nodulation and nitrogen fixation.【Result】Screening of the yeast two-hybrid library identified 18 potential interacting proteins of GmBI-1, including late nodulins, leghemoglobins, serine/ threonine protein kinases, cysteine oxidases, cytidine triphosphate synthases, ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes, and other proteins related to immunity and post-translational modifications. Tissue expression analysis revealed that six genes exhibited relatively high expression levels in roots, while four genes showed higher expression in root nodules. Among them, GmNod44 was specifically and highly expressed in root nodules. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that soybean GmNod44 shares the highest homology with wild soybean GsNod22. GmNod44 and GmBI-1 were confirmed to interact in both yeast and tobacco in vivo assays and were co-localized to the endoplasmic reticulum in Arabidopsis protoplasts. Following overexpression of GmNod44, the number of nodules on composite soybean hairy roots significantly increased, and the expression levels of the interacting gene GmBI-1 and three nodulation marker genes-Apyrase GS52, Calmodulin, and Lb1-were significantly upregulated. Nitrogenase and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging enzyme activities in the nodules markedly rose, while cysteine protease activity significantly decreased. The above results indicate that overexpression of GmNod44 can promote soybean nodulation, enhance the nitrogen fixation capacity of nodules, and delay nodule senescence. 【Conclusion】The late nodulin GmNod44 interacts with the apoptosis inhibitor GmBI-1 and positively regulates the process of nodulation and nitrogen fixation in soybean.

    Identification and Comprehensive Evaluation of the Barren-Tolerant Germplasm Resources of Foxtail Millet in Shanxi
    XIE YongXiang, PAN YiMin, HUANG Rui, QIN HuiBin, HOU Sen, HE Qiang, LING Liang, MU ZhiXin, WANG HaiGang
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2325-2339.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.003
    Abstract ( 23 )   HTML ( 3 )   PDF (4921KB) ( 13 )   Save
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    【Objective】This study aimed to select superior barren-tolerant germplasm, establish an evaluation model, and identify diagnostic indicators in foxtail millet germplasm resources from Shanxi, so as to provide the theoretical basis and methodological support for the efficient breeding of barren-tolerant foxtail millet varieties. 【Method】617 local foxtail millet varieties were used as experimental materials. Trials were carried out under low-fertility stress in Taiyuan (23TY, 24TY) and under normal fertility conditions in Dongyang (23DY, 24DY) from 2023 to 2024. Eleven indicators were measured, including stem node number (SNN), stem diameter (SD), panicle diameter (PD), plant height (PH), peduncle length (PeL), panicle length (PaL), leaf length (LL), leaf width (LW), spike weight per plant (SWP), grain weight per plant (GWP), and thousand-grain weight (TGW). A comprehensive evaluation and identification were carried out using multiple analytical methods, such as normal distribution test, barren tolerance coefficient difference analysis, correlation analysis, cluster analysis, and regression analysis. 【Result】The results showed significant differences in agronomic traits, with coefficients of variation ranging from 9.23% to 48.05%. Specifically, the coefficient of variation for LW in 23TY was the smallest (9.23%), while the coefficient for GWP in 24TY was the largest (48.05%). K-S test results indicated that, except for SNN, PaL, LW, and SWP, other traits showed varying degrees of normal distribution in different environments (P>0.05). Correlation analysis showed that SWP and GWP exhibited a significant positive correlation with the highest correlation coefficient, followed by SNN with PH, PaL with LL. In addition, PeL and SNN showed a significant negative correlation in 23TY and 23DY; LL and PH, LL and SNN, PeL and PD had a significant negative correlation in 23TY; and PeL was significantly negatively correlated with PH in 23DY. Principal component analysis results revealed that 11 phenotypic traits were converted into 2 comprehensive indices, with a cumulative explanation rate of 59.68%. Using the membership function method calculated the barren tolerance (D value), and cluster analysis was performed. The varieties were classified into three categories: Class I included 13 barren-sensitive varieties with D values ranging from 0.09 to 0.28; Class Ⅱ included 595 moderately barren-tolerant varieties with D values ranging from 0.40 to 0.81; Class Ⅲ included 9 barren-tolerant varieties with D values ranging from 0.84 to 0.93. Maorangu was the most barren-tolerant variety from Yangquan city. Through multiple regression analysis, a predictive evaluation model for barren tolerance was established: Y=-0.031+0.129X9+0.167X10+0.141X6+0.233X8+ 0.205X4 (R2=0.951, P<0.001). 【Conclusion】Using multivariate statistical analysis methods, it is reliable to evaluate and predict the barren tolerance of foxtail millet germplasm. Five phenotypic traits are selected as evaluation indicators for barren tolerance: plant height, panicle length, leaf width, spike weight per plant, grain weight per plant. The Maorangu variety from Yangquan city was the strongest barren tolerance.

    TILLAGE & CULTIVATION·PHYSIOLOGY & BIOCHEMISTRY·AGRICULTURE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
    Effects of Partial Organic Fertilizer Substitution and Plastic Film Mulching on Root Growth, Yield, and Water Use Efficiency of Spring Wheat in Dryland
    WEI WenLong, WANG LinLin, CHEN XiaoLi, WU LingBin, LI LuFang, XIE YunTing, WANG JiangWen
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2340-2357.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.004
    Abstract ( 27 )   HTML ( 6 )   PDF (1294KB) ( 40 )   Save
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    【Objective】This study aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of partial substitution of chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer and plastic film mulching on yield and water use efficiency (WUE) of spring wheat in dryland, and to provide a theoretical basis for high-yield and efficient production of spring wheat in the rainfed farming areas of the Loess Plateau.【Method】A field experiment was conducted in Dingxi city, Gansu province, from 2023 to 2025, with four treatments established: chemical fertilizer only (NP, supplying 105 kg·N hm-2 and 105 kg P2O5·hm-2), partial substitution of chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer (MNP, supplying 80 kg N·hm-2 and 88 kg P2O5·hm-2, plus 8 500 kg·hm-2 of composted sheep manure, corresponding to approximately 23.8% and 16.2% substitution of chemical N and P2O5, respectively), chemical fertilizer combined with plastic film mulching (FNP), and the combined application of organic substitution and film mulching (FMNP). The effects of these treatments on root traits, stage-specific water use, dry matter accumulation, yield, and water use efficiency (WUE) of spring wheat were investigated.【Result】Film mulching treatments (FNP and FMNP) significantly enhanced soil water storage at sowing compared to non-mulched treatments (NP and MNP), with an average increase of 23.7 mm. In contrast, organic substitution without film mulching (MNP) did not exert a significant effect on soil water storage. Relative to NP treatment, FNP and FMNP significantly increased root length density in the 0-20 cm soil layer at maturity by 25.7% and 22.0%, and in the 60-140 cm layer by 33.7% and 45.9%, respectively. Water consumption during the jointing-flowering stage was significantly increased by 16.8% and 24.5%, and the stage-specific water use efficiency was correspondingly enhanced by 34.3% and 35.0% for FNP and FMNP compared to NP. Leaf area index (LAI) was significantly elevated by 12.5%, 30.2%, and 38.7% for MNP, FNP, and FMNP, respectively, compared with NP. Moreover, aboveground dry matter accumulation at maturity was significantly increased by 35.1% and 40.5% for FNP and FMNP, respectively, averaged over the two-year period. Compared with the NP treatment, the FNP and FMNP treatments significantly increased grain yield by 47.0% and 58.7%, respectively, and water use efficiency for grain yield (WUEg) by 31.3% and 41.7% on average, respectively. In contrast, the MNP treatment did not significantly improve grain yield or WUEg relative to NP. Random forest and structural equation modeling analyses indicated that the combined application of organic substitution and film mulching affected root traits, which in turn regulated stage-specific water use and dry matter partitioning, thereby significantly influencing yield and WUEg.【Conclusion】These results demonstrate that the integration of partial organic fertilizer substitution with plastic film mulching optimizes root architecture, enhances water use during the jointing-flowering stage, increases biomass accumulation, reduces the root-to-shoot ratio, and promotes the allocation of photosynthetic assimilates to grains, ultimately improving both grain yield and water use efficiency of spring wheat in dryland.

    Effects of Endogenous Hormones and Source-Sink-Flow Relationships on Grain Yield in Oat Under Reduced Irrigation Conditions
    YANG Lin, DUAN PuShun, WANG FengWu, WANG QianJun, ZHENG ChengZhong, MEI Xue, WANG XiQuan, ZHAO BaoPing
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2358-2373.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.005
    Abstract ( 20 )   HTML ( 7 )   PDF (2509KB) ( 16 )   Save
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    【Objective】As a major oat-producing region in China, Inner Mongolia is located in an arid to semi-arid area where water availability significantly limits stable and high oat yields. This study investigates the physiological mechanisms of yield formation under different reduced irrigation regimes, aiming to provide theoretical basis and practical guidance for developing water-saving and high-yielding cultivation practices for oats in this region.【Method】A fixed-site field experiment was conducted in Ulanqab City, Inner Mongolia, during 2022-2023. Two oat varieties with contrasting grain numbers per spike-Bayou 1 and Dingyou 8-were used. Under rain-out shelter conditions, three irrigation treatments were applied: conventional irrigation (CK), reduced irrigation at the tillering stage (RIt), and reduced irrigation at the jointing stage (RIj). After the irrigation treatments, the shelters were removed at the booting stage. Spikelet development, changes in endogenous hormones in various plant parts, and source-sink-flow characteristics in relation to grain yield were systematically analyzed to clarify the physiological responses of oats to reduced irrigation.【Result】Oat grain yield was significantly affected by year, variety, and reduced irrigation regime. Compared with conventional irrigation, reduced irrigation at tillering decreased the two-year average yield of both varieties by 7.8%-8.9%, whereas reduced irrigation at jointing reduced yield by 17.9%-20.0%. Reduced irrigation at jointing markedly decreased the number of fertile spikelets in the central portion of the panicle while increasing the number of sterile spikelets in the basal portion, resulting in a two-year average reduction in panicle grain number and fertility of 28.2% and 11.3% in Bayou 1, and 25.8% and 15.6% in Dingyou 8. Mantel test and random forest analysis indicated that grain yield was closely associated with endogenous hormones in different organs, with reduced irrigation at jointing decreasing the two-year average (IAA+GA3+ZR)/ ABA ratios in the panicle, leaves, and roots of both oat varieties by 16.4%-32.2%, 22.2%-54.4%, and 21.9%-50.6%, respectively, while reduced irrigation at the tillering stage increased the corresponding ratios by 42.2%-54.8%, 10.3%-55.5%, and 18.4%-94.8%, respectively. Furthermore, reduced irrigation at jointing disrupted source-sink relationships, suppressed photosynthetic capacity, limited assimilate availability, and impeded vascular bundle development, thereby restricting dry matter accumulation in various organs and ultimately reducing grain yield. In contrast, reduced irrigation at tillering had minimal effects on these physiological processes.【Conclusion】Water deficit during the jointing stage disrupts the balance of endogenous hormones and the source-sink relationship in different oat organs, thereby affecting the development of spikelets, reducing the number of grains per panicle and the seed-setting rate, and ultimately leading to a significant decline in grain yield. Therefore, in the arid regions of Inner Mongolia, to mitigate the negative effects of water stress on oat grain yield, implementing moderate water control during the tillering stage combined with irrigation at the jointing stage, along with the selection of varieties with a higher number of grains per panicle, can effectively reduce both water wastage and yield loss.

    PLANT PROTECTION
    Function of c-di-GMP Synthase Rsp1208 of Ralstonia solanacearum Strain GMI 1000
    FAN XiaoHan, ZHANG WeiJun, YUAN JinFeng, ZHAO DongLin, ZHANG ChengSheng, ZHANG ZhiFan, XU KangWen
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2374-2386.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.006
    Abstract ( 14 )   HTML ( 1 )   PDF (2019KB) ( 7 )   Save
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    【Background】Bacterial wilt is a devastating soil-borne vascular disease caused by Ralstonia solanacearum. As a conserved second messenger in bacteria, c-di-GMP orchestrates multiple pathogenic phenotypes of plant bacterial pathogens. However, the functional characteristics of core c-di-GMP metabolic genes in R. solanacearum remain to be fully elucidated.【Objective】This study aimed to investigate the functions and regulatory mechanisms of c-di-GMP metabolism-associated genes in R. solanacearum GMI 1000, clarify the impacts of key genes on bacterial physiological phenotypes and pathogenicity, refine the c-di-GMP signaling regulatory network, and to provide a theoretical foundations for screening novel control targets and developing green management strategies against bacterial wilt.【Method】Using R. solanacearum GMI 1000 as the material, RT-qPCR was performed to compare the transcriptional profiles of 24 putative c-di-GMP metabolic genes under routine culture and simulated infection conditions. For the most significantly downregulated gene Rsp1208, gene deletion, complementation, enzyme active-site mutagenesis and overexpression strains were constructed via homologous recombination and electroporation. Key physiological phenotypes including growth kinetics, motility, biofilm formation and exopolysaccharide (EPS) yield were systematically quantified. Transcriptional levels of motility- and EPS synthesis-related genes were analyzed by RT-qPCR. Intracellular c-di-GMP content and in vitro diguanylate cyclase activity were detected using LC-MS/MS and thiazole orange fluorescence assay, respectively. Pathogenicity assays on tomato seedlings were conducted using the root-wounding inoculation method.【Result】Under simulated infection conditions, all 24 c-di-GMP metabolic genes were transcriptionally downregulated to varying degrees, among which Rsp1208 showed the most extreme downregulation. The protein encoded by Rsp1208 harbors both GGDEF and EAL domains. Deletion of Rsp1208 significantly increased bacterial motility by 26.57% and EPS production by 85.92%, reduced biofilm formation by 75%, decreased intracellular c-di-GMP levels markedly, and extremely enhanced pathogenicity on tomato. The complemented strain restored wild-type phenotypes, whereas the overexpression strain exhibited attenuated motility, mildly elevated biofilm formation and significantly weakened pathogenicity. Transcriptional levels of motility-related genes (flhC, fliA, fliM, fliC) and EPS synthesis genes (xpsR, epsB) were drastically upregulated in the Rsp1208 deletion mutant. Mutation of the GGDEF active site abolished the c-di-GMP synthetic activity of Rsp1208, while EAL site mutation exerted no significant effect.【Conclusion】Rsp1208 functions as a c-di-GMP diguanylate cyclase through its GGDEF domain, regulating intracellular c-di-GMP homeostasis in R. solanacearum, mediating phenotypic remodeling of motility, biofilm formation and EPS production, and ultimately governing the pathogenicity of the pathogen. These findings deepen the mechanistic understanding of R. solanacearum pathogenesis and provide critical theoretical support for the development of green control technologies against bacterial wilt.

    Effects of Different Pest Management Strategies on the Community Structure of Arthropods in Cotton Fields
    HU ZiYu, ZHANG WenHui, ZHOU XiaoTong, WANG XinYi, ZHANG YunHe, TIAN YongQi, ZHANG JianPing, CAI ZhiPing
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2387-2404.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.007
    Abstract ( 16 )   HTML ( 2 )   PDF (2188KB) ( 8 )   Save
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    【Objective】The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of different pest management strategies on arthropod community diversity in cotton fields, and to provide a theoretical foundation for establishing an eco-friendly cotton field management approach centered on ecological control.【Method】Three management models—ecological control, no control, and chemical control—were established in cotton fields in Xinjiang. Six methods (visual inspection, Marshall net, sweep net, yellow sticky traps, basin-sweeping, and pitfall traps) were employed to systematically survey the species and abundance of arthropods in cotton fields. Differences in arthropod community composition among the three management models, structural and diversity characteristics of various arthropod functional groups, temporal changes in arthropod diversity indices, and the beneficial-to-pest ratio of the communities were analyzed.【Result】Insect species richness and abundance varied significantly across management models: highest in no control fields (12 orders, 61 families, 85 426 individuals), followed by ecological control fields (14 orders, 78 families, 75 072 individuals), and lowest in chemical control fields (10 orders, 48 families, 41 237 individuals). Hemiptera (Aphidae) and Thysanoptera (Thripidae) were the dominant groups across all three cotton fields. Carnivorous groups were most abundant in ecological control fields (34 families), followed by no control fields (23 families) and chemical control fields (20 families). Phytophagous groups were most abundant in ecological control fields (30 families), followed by no control fields (26 families), and least abundant in chemical control fields (19 families). The species richness of arthropods in cotton fields under ecological control remained at the highest level throughout the entire cotton growth cycle. The trends in diversity indices, concentration, and evenness were consistent across the three treatment groups, while dominance exhibited an inverse relationship with these three indicators. Moreover, the positive effect of ecological control on arthropod species richness and diversity indices was most pronounced during the cotton bud stage. Furthermore, ecological control fields exhibited the highest individual number ratio (1﹕0.882) and family number ratio (1﹕16.825) between carnivorous and phytophagous groups among the three models.【Conclusion】Ecological control can increase the abundance of arthropods and the number of natural enemies in cotton fields, thereby reducing pest populations and positively influencing the structure of arthropod communities in these ecosystems.

    SOIL & FERTILIZER·WATER-SAVING IRRIGATION·AGROECOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
    Effects and Dominant Controlling Factors of the Combined Application of Organic and Chemical Fertilizers on Elevating Soil Fertility and Maize Yield in the Black Soil Region of Northeast China
    LI Chang, REN FengLing, ZHANG LuPing, WANG ShuHui, QIAO Lei, SUN Nan, XU MingGang
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2405-2419.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.008
    Abstract ( 14 )   HTML ( 1 )   PDF (1922KB) ( 10 )   Save
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    【Objective】This study aimed to elucidate the impacts and dominant factors of combined application of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers with manure (NPKM) and manure alone (M), compared with application of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers (NPK), on soil properties and maize yield across different soil types, soil textures, soil pH levels, and initial SOC contents, to provide a scientific basis for mitigating black soil degradation and promoting high and stable maize yields.【Method】Based on 75 published studies and 477 paired datasets regarding the effects of fertilization on soil fertility and maize yield, this study employed a meta-analysis to quantitatively assess the impacts of NPKM and M treatments (relative to NPK) on soil physicochemical and biological properties and maize yield of the black soil in Northeast China, considering soil types, textures, pH levels, and initial SOC contents. Furthermore, principal component analysis and a random forest model were employed to identify the relative importance of different soil properties in determining the soil fertility index and maize yields.【Result】Compared with NPK, NPKM significantly reduced soil bulk density (BD) by 6.2%, with the largest reduction in pH<6.5 (12.3%). The NPKM treatment increased SOC by 24.0%, with the highest increase (30.6%) when initial SOC was less than 20 g·kg-1. It also enhanced AN, AP, and AK, with larger increments under pH 6.5-7.0. Regarding maize yield, NPKM increased it by more than 25% on average, with the largest increase (43.7%) at pH 6.5-7.0. The M treatment increased SOC by an average of 21.1%, with the greatest increase (42.5%) at low initial SOC, but its enhancing effect gradually weakened as the initial SOC content increased. Overall, the effect of the M treatment was weaker than that of NPKM, and under some conditions, it even reduced total phosphorus (TP) by 12.6% and total potassium (TK) by 3.7%. The soil fertility indices for NPKM and M treatments were 0.7 and 0.6, respectively, both indicating a high fertility level. The PCA and random forest analyses showed that SOC was the core driver of increasing maize yield. The increment of maize yield under NPKM was primarily dependent on SOC, TN, SMBC, and BD, with a cumulative explanatory rate of 60.2%. In contrast, the yield increase under M was mainly dependent on SOC, BD, pH, SMBC, and SMBN with a cumulative explanatory rate of 63.7%.【Conclusion】In the black soil region of Northeast China, NPKM significantly reduced BD and enhanced SOC, nutrient availability, microbial biomass, and maize yield, having a more comprehensive effect than that under M. Our study demonstrated that NPKM was more effective for improving soil fertility and securing high and stable maize yields. It also identified SOC as the key driver of soil fertility and maize yield under NPKM treatment, and concluded that this fertilization method is the optimal approach for enhancing black soil fertility and achieving high and stable maize yields. Additionally, NPKM represented an effective strategy for enhancing soil fertility, preventing degradation, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable agricultural development.

    Effects of Replacing Nitrogen Fertilizer with Different Types of Manure on Crop Yield and Nutrient Uptake Under Rice-Oilseed Rape Rotation
    LUO XinXin, YU QiuHua, ZHANG ShuZhen, ZHANG Qian, ZHOU ZhiHua, LI XiaoKun, LU ZhiFeng, CONG RiHuan, LU JianWei
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2420-2433.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.009
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    【Objective】Livestock manure recycling in farmland is an effective measure to dispose of livestock waste, reduce chemical fertilizer usage, and achieve green sustainable development in agriculture. Based on a two-year field experiment, this study explored the impacts of applying different types of manure under reduced chemical fertilization on crop yield, nutrient uptake, and utilization efficiency in a rice-rapeseed rotation system, which aimed to provide scientific guidance for the rational application of manure in rice-oilseed rape rotation production systems.【Method】The field trial was conducted in Dafasi Town, Wuxue City, Hubei Province, from 2022 to 2024. Under the condition of straw return to the field, the trial was set up with seven treatments: conventional fertilization (Con), 15% nitrogen fertilizer reduction on the basis of Con (85%N), pig biogas slurry fertilizer application on the basis of Con replacing 15% chemical nitrogen fertilizer (85%N+PS), Con application on the basis of chicken manure-based solid fertilizer to replace 15% chemical nitrogen fertilizer (85%N+CM), 30% nitrogen fertilizer reduction on Con basis (70%N), pig biogas slurry fertilizer to replace 30% chemical nitrogen fertilizer on Con basis (70%N+PS), and chicken manure-based solid fertilizer to replace 30% chemical nitrogen fertilizer on Con basis (70%N+CM). Based on the crop yield, yield constituting factors, and nutrient accumulation in conjunction with the nutrient harvest index, nutrient apparent balance and fertilizer contribution rate were analyzed comprehensively. 【Result】The results of the two-season experiment showed that the application of different types of manure under the condition of nitrogen fertilizer reduction could improve the crop yield and nutrient uptake of the rice-oilseed rape rotation system. There was no significant difference in yield, nitrogen and potassium accumulation and harvest index of oilseed rape and rice under 85%N+CM and 85%N+PS treatments compared with Con treatment. However, different types of manure showed significant effects on enhancing crop nutrient uptake and regulating the annual nutrient balance across the rotation cycles, and the 85%N+CM treatment significantly increased the phosphorus accumulation in oilseed rape and rice (the increases were 22.1%-24.8% and 16.6%-16.9%, respectively), but the annual phosphorus surplus and profit and loss ratio increased by 155.9% and 60.3%, respectively, due to the large amount of phosphorus input brought by chicken manure-based solid fertilizer. In contrast, the 85%N+PS treatment reduced the annual nitrogen and phosphorus surplus by 23.5% and 5.9%, respectively, and the corresponding profit and loss ratios decreased by 17.9% and 6.7%, respectively, while maintaining crop nutrient uptake. Compared with 85%N+CM treatment, the FCR of 85%N+PS treatment in oilseed rape and rice increased by 17.4%-27.0% and 24.1%-35.5%, respectively, this not only achieved an efficient substitution of chemical N fertilizer but also substantially alleviated the pressure of soil nutrient surplus : the surplus of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium was reduced by 28.6%, 63.2% and 35.5%, respectively, and the profit and loss ratio was reduced by 19.3%, 41.8% and 20.5%, respectively. When the nitrogen reduction ratio reached 30% (70%N+CM/PS), compared with the 85%N+CM/PS treatment, the yield of oilseed rape and rice decreased by 7.2%-18.5% and 6.9%-15.7%, respectively, and the accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the shoots decreased significantly, the annual nutrient surplus and profit and loss ratio increased. 【Conclusion】In conclusion, compared with conventional fertilization, the application of different types of manure under the condition of a 15% reduction in nitrogen could not only ensure the crop yield of the rice-oilseed rape rotation system, but also effectively promote the absorption of nutrients by crops, among them, combined with pig biogas liquid fertilizer (85%N+PS) treatment to further improve nutrient uptake and FCR while maintaining yield, and reduce the annual nutrient surplus of rotation, and achieve the level of conventional fertilization. Therefore, it was recommended as the best manure return model for the rice-oilseed rape rotation system.

    The Characteristics of Stoichiometric Ratios of Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Farmland Soils Under Different Land Use Patterns in Typical Red Soil Regions of Hunan Province
    LIN Jiao, MOU TingSen, CHEN Jun, LI Xiang, YUAN SiYu, LIU Le, ZHANG ZhenHua, XIA YinHang
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2434-2446.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.010
    Abstract ( 12 )   HTML ( 4 )   PDF (1542KB) ( 11 )   Save
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    【Objective】Soil nutrient stoichiometric ratios are key indicators for characterizing nutrient cycling and element balance in farmland ecosystems. Taking typical red soil regions in Hunan Province as the research subject, this study explores the effects of different land use patterns on soil C, N and P stoichiometric characteristics, further reveals the variation rules of soil nutrients in red soil areas, and clarifies the types and degrees of regional soil nutrient limitation. 【Method】This study selected plow layer soils from 15 pairs of adjacent paddy, paddy-upland rotation, and upland across five counties from north to south in Hunan Province, China, to explore the stoichiometric ratios of C, N, and P.【Result】Compared with upland soils, paddy and paddy-upland rotation had higher soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) content, and enzyme activity C:N ratio (EC:N), as well as lower C:N and microbial biomass C:N ratio (MBC:MBN), indicating relatively higher N supply capacity and organic C mineralization potential. Meanwhile, paddy exhibited lower total phosphorus (TP) and available phosphorus (AP) content, enzyme activity C:P ratio (EC:P) and enzyme activity N:P ratio (EN:P), but higher C:P, N:P, AN:AP, microbial biomass C:P ratio (MBC:MBP) and microbial biomass N:P ratio (MBN:MBP), suggesting relatively insufficient P supply. However, paddy-upland rotation did not significantly alter soil TP content or EC:P and EN:P ratio. Nevertheless, the relatively low content of AP suggests that paddy-upland rotation could, to a certain extent, promote the accumulation of total soil phosphorus, while the availability of such phosphorus remained low. The analysis of correlation and redundancy showed that soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus were key influencing factors for the stoichiometric ratios of C, N, and P in cultivated soil, microbial biomass, and extracellular enzymes in red soil regions.【Conclusion】In summary, in typical red soil regions of Hunan Province, paddy and paddy-upland rotation had relatively sufficient N supply, with high potential for organic carbon mineralization (which is easily mineralized). The flooded environment might be the main reason for maintaining their relatively high organic carbon content. The total phosphorus content in paddy-upland rotation fields was relatively high, yet its availability needed to be improved.

    HORTICULTURE
    Research Progress in Genetic Characteristics and Loci Mapping for Grape Berry Quality Traits
    WANG HuiLing, WANG XiaoYue, YAN AiLing, LIU ZhenHua, REN JianCheng, LU HaoCheng, SUN Lei
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2447-2467.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.011
    Abstract ( 11 )   HTML ( 2 )   PDF (1925KB) ( 7 )   Save
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    Berry quality is a core objective of grapevine breeding. Most related traits are quantitative characteristics controlled by multiple genes, which are susceptible to the combined effects of genetic background and environmental factors. Deciphering the genetic basis of these traits is of great significance for molecular design breeding of grapes. This study systematically reviews the genetic characteristics of grape berry quality traits (e.g., berry size, texture, sugar and acid content, color, seedlessness, and aroma) and summarizes the research progress over the past three decades in identifying QTLs/candidate genes for quality traits using linkage analysis in bi-parental segregating populations and association analysis in natural populations. Grape berry size, shape and texture are typical polygenic quantitative traits with high broad-sense heritability; traits such as berry color, seedlessness and muscat flavor exhibit dual genetic characteristics of both qualitative and quantitative traits, which are regulated by major genes combined with minor genes. In addition, the phenotypic expression of most quality traits is significantly affected by environmental factors such as cultivation practices, light and temperature. In terms of linkage analysis, a total of approximately 386 QTLs associated with grape berry quality traits were mapped using about 60 hybrid populations dominated by F₁ generations, among which the number of QTLs related to sugar and acid content was the largest. Major QTLs for seedlessness, berry size, texture and other traits were identified on linkage group 18, and a major QTL for muscat aroma was detected on linkage group 5. Meanwhile, key candidate genes such as VviAGL11, DXS and MYBA1/2 were excavated, and their core regulatory roles in seedlessness, muscat aroma and berry color were clarified. For association analysis, candidate gene association analysis confirmed that the sequence polymorphisms of gene clusters such as VvMybA and genes including DXS were significantly associated with fruit color, muscat aroma and other traits, and some genes exhibited pleiotropy. Genome-wide association analysis has identified a large number of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci and structural variations (SVs) related to berry quality traits, among which SVs contribute more to the genetic regulation of some traits than SNPs. At present, the application of molecular markers in grape quality breeding is still limited to traits controlled by major genes such as berry color, seedlessness and muscat aroma, and marker-assisted selection has not been practically applied to complex quantitative traits such as berry size and texture. Currently, the gene mapping of grape berry quality traits is still faced with challenges such as insufficient mapping accuracy, difficulties in multi-omics data integration, complexity in deciphering multi-gene interaction networks, and poor stability of molecular markers. In the future, relying on super pan-genome and high-throughput phenotyping platforms, combined with technologies such as deep learning and gene editing, it is necessary to strengthen research on gene-environment interactions, improve the accuracy of QTL mapping and the efficiency of gene function analysis, and construct an efficient molecular breeding technology system, so as to provide theoretical support and technical guarantee for the cultivation of high-quality grape varieties. This paper aims to offer a comprehensive literature reference and theoretical foundation for subsequent molecular design breeding of premium grape cultivars.

    Genetic Diversity Analysis and Comprehensive Evaluation of Phenotypic Traits in 364 Cherry Tomato Germplasm Resources
    ZHANG YueQing, ZHANG YuTing, XUE ChenFei, HAN QinYu, HE YiRong, XU ZiJuan, FAN XiuMei, WANG JunE, LUO Dan, FENG Xue, SUN Sheng
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2468-2483.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.012
    Abstract ( 7 )   HTML ( 1 )   PDF (2431KB) ( 6 )   Save
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    【Objective】To analyze the genetic diversity of phenotypic traits in cherry tomato germplasm resources, conduct a comprehensive evaluation, and screen for superior cherry tomato materials. This aims to provide a basis for the selection, utilization, and breeding of core cherry tomato germplasm. 【Method】This study utilized 364 cherry tomato germplasm resources from domestic and international sources as experimental materials, measuring 41 phenotypic traits. Employing multivariate statistical analysis methods including genetic diversity indices, correlation analysis, principal component analysis, systematic clustering, and membership function analysis, the research conducted genetic diversity analysis, cluster classification, and comprehensive evaluation of cherry tomato germplasm phenotypes.【Result】The coefficient of variation (CV) for 364 cherry tomato phenotypic traits ranged from 9.72% to 45.18%, with the highest CV observed for single fruit weight. Genetic diversity indices ranged from 0.14 to 2.17. The results of the correlation analysis indicate that significant or highly significant correlations exist between quantitative traits. Principal component analysis extracted 13 principal components with a cumulative contribution rate of 70.525%, representing most trait information of cherry tomato germplasm. Through cluster analysis, the test materials were classified into eight categories. Based on the systematic clustering results, the test materials were divided into eight groups. GroupⅠ comprises 29 materials suitable as parental lines for high-yield breeding. GroupⅡ includes 25 materials that can be utilized as fresh-market varieties. GroupⅢ contains only one material, T12, exhibiting unique characteristics. GroupⅣ, comprising 27 materials, is suitable for developing varieties with excellent commercial traits and storage/transport tolerance. GroupⅤ, with 75 materials, serves as a key resource for improving fruit flavor and breeding high-sugar varieties. GroupⅥ, containing 49 materials, exhibits a high sugar-to-acid ratio and favorable taste profile, holding significant value for fresh-eating flavor enhancement. GroupⅦ comprises 150 materials, the largest group, demonstrating significant potential for early-maturing breeding. GroupⅧ contains only 8 materials with distinctive fruit shapes, suitable for developing specialty fresh-eating varieties or for processing into sauces. Comprehensive evaluation using weighted membership functions selected the top 29 cherry tomato germplasm materials based on overall phenotypic performance, identifying 23 key trait indicators. 【Conclusion】The 364 cherry tomato germplasm resources showed extensive phenotypic variation and genetic diversity. They were classified into eight groups by cluster analysis, with 23 key indicators identified via principal component analysis, and 29 germplasm materials with superior comprehensive traits selected through membership function analysis.

    FOOD SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
    Analysis of Dough Floc Images and Physicochemical Properties During Oat Dough Mixing Stage and Construction of Deep Learning Recognition Model
    HOU ChenZi, LI XiaoPing, WANG XiaoLong, GUO LaiChun, REN ChangZhong, HU XinZhong
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2484-2498.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.013
    Abstract ( 12 )   HTML ( 1 )   PDF (6272KB) ( 8 )   Save
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    【Objective】This study aimed to classify the stages of oat dough mixing, analyze the mechanisms by which oat dough flocs regulate product quality at each stage, and develop a model to identify these stages, so as to provide a theoretical basis and technical support for enhancing the automation of oat flour product processing.【Method】Oat dough flocs images during oat flour mixing were used as the dataset. Morphological information was first extracted from these images to classify the stages of oat dough mixing. Subsequently, the regulatory mechanisms of dough floc properties on product quality at each stage were elucidated, focusing on gelatinization degree, amylose content, intermolecular forces, textural properties, rheological properties and moisture distribution of dough flocs. Finally, a simple and efficient prediction model for oat dough mixing stages was developed by combining a convolutional neural network (ResNet-50) with a support vector machine (SVM).【Result】Based on changes in the image shadow area combined with cluster analysis, the oat dough mixing process was divided into four distinct stages: water absorption and adhesion, agglomeration into a mass, dynamic equilibrium, and rupture followed by dispersion. Three key trends were observed during the mixing process: first, the gelatinization degree of oat dough flocs gradually increased and stabilized at the dynamic equilibrium stage, while the amylose content decreased gradually and stabilized at the same stage; second, the effects of disulfide bonds, hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, and hydrophobic interactions progressively enhanced; third, textural analysis showed that from the water absorption and adhesion stage to the dynamic equilibrium stage, the hardness, chewiness, and elasticity of oat dough flocs all increased and reached their maximum values, whereas hardness began to decrease at the rupture and dispersion stage. Additionally, the K value of rheological properties showed an upward trend from the water absorption and adhesion stage to the dynamic equilibrium stage, indicating improved dough strength and stability of the oat dough flocs. Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) analysis further revealed that moisture migrated from the free state to the bound state (A22-1, and A22-2) and finally reached a stable state at the dynamic equilibrium stage. Notably, the ResNet-50-SVM-based prediction model for oat dough floc image stages achieved a recognition accuracy of 90%.【Conclusion】The oat dough mixing process could be divided into four stages based on the shadow area of dough floc images, with significant variations in dough floc quality across these stages. Specifically, at the dynamic equilibrium stage, particle uniformity and processability of oat dough flocs were optimized, making this stage the ideal processing window for oat noodle production. The established model enabled reliable identification and classification of dough mixing stages, providing the methodological and technical support for the automated processing of oat noodle products.

    Quality Change Mechanism of High-Moisture and Low-Salt Tibetan Pork Sausage
    ZHOU Qi, ZHANG JiaMin, XU Ying, HU Wei, LIAO Bin, HUANG Feng, ZHANG ChunHui
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2499-2512.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.014
    Abstract ( 11 )   HTML ( 1 )   PDF (4621KB) ( 6 )   Save
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    【Objective】This study was conducted to investigate the quality formation mechanism of Tibetan pork sausage under high-moisture and low-salt conditions and to clarify the relationship between moisture migration and product quality. It aimed to provide a theoretical basis for overcoming common technical bottlenecks in traditional sausage products, such as high salt content and excessive hardness, and for developing novel meat products with both health attributes and superior quality. 【Method】A two-factor interaction experimental design was adopted. Sausage samples were prepared under the following conditions: a fixed salt addition level of 1.5% and a moisture content adjusted in the range of 25% to 50%, and a fixed moisture content of 45% and a salt addition level adjusted in the range of 1.0% to 2.5%. The sausages were systematically analyzed for pH, color, texture, cooking loss, moisture distribution (via low-field nuclear magnetic resonance and imaging), flavor (using an electronic nose and an electronic tongue), and microstructure (via scanning electron microscopy). Sensory evaluation was also performed, and the data were analyzed to comprehensively elucidate the patterns of quality evolution. 【Result】Under the fixed salt addition level of 1.5%, the increase in moisture content led to an initial decrease followed by an increase in pH, a significant increase in cooking loss rate, a prolongation in T2 relaxation time (immobile and free water), and a reduction in texture hardness of up to 49.61%. With the moisture content fixed at 45%, with the decreasing of salt addition, several changes happened. Specifically, no significant change was observed in pH. The cooking loss rate rose, and the T2 relaxation time increased significantly. Whereas the hydrogen proton density exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease, the muscle fiber structure underwent a progressive transformation: from initial cracking, to an optimized uniform and dense state, and finally to a rough and disordered morphology. The flavor profile showed significant differences between various treatment groups (P<0.05), whereas no significant differences were found in the taste profile. Comprehensive analysis indicated that the Tibetan pork sausages with a moisture content of 45% and a salt addition level of 1.5% demonstrated optimal performance in terms of color brightness, texture suitability, water retention capacity, and the uniformity and denseness of the microstructure. 【Conclusion】In contrast to traditional low-moisture and high-salt formulations, the high-moisture (45%) and low-salt (1.5%) formulation synergistically optimized both the protein network structure and moisture distribution state in Tibetan pork sausage. This approach significantly reduced salt consumption while maintaining suitable texture characteristics, good water-holding stability, a balanced flavor profile, and high sensory acceptability.

    ANIMAL SCIENCE·VETERINARY SCIENCE
    The Whole Genome Data Revealed the Characteristics of Germplasm Resource and Genetic Diversity of Fengcheng Ducks
    MIAO JunJie, XIE PingHua, LIAO XiaoHua, MAO HuiRong, XIE ChongChong, ZHOU Jing, TAN HongLi, WU LiPing, WANG YaNan, OUYANG Jing, YAN XueMing, CHEN Hao
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2513-2525.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.015
    Abstract ( 13 )   HTML ( 4 )   PDF (2936KB) ( 10 )   Save
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    【Objective】 This study aims to investigate the phylogenetic relationships between Fengcheng duck (FCD) and Chinese indigenous duck breeds, analyze the genetic diversity and genetic structure of FCD and other duck breeds, so as to provide a theoretical foundation for the identification and conservation of Chinese indigenous duck resources. 【Method】 Whole-genome resequencing at 12× coverage was performed on blood samples from 35 FCD individuals. Genome data from 420 individuals of 12 breeds from different regions in China were integrated, totaling 455 individuals across 13 breeds. Using a high-quality Ji'an Red duck genome as a reference, genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected using GATK software, and all variants were annotated using SnpEff software. Based on autosomal SNPs, a phylogenetic tree was constructed, and PCA clustering and Admixture analysis were performed to assess the population structure of indigenous ducks. Six parameters, were used to evaluate population genetic diversity, including common SNPs, expected heterozygosity, observed heterozygosity, inbreeding coefficient, population genetic distance, and runs of homozygosity, and the fixation index (Fst) was employed to quantify the degree of differentiation between populations.【Result】A total of 8 656 794 SNPs were detected in the FCD population, with an average of one variant per 132 base pairs. Combined with the genomic data of other local duck breeds, a total of 8 889 170 SNPs were detected, which were mainly enriched in intergenic regions (45.50%), followed by intronic regions (32.82%), upstream regions (9.74%), downstream regions (9.27%), and exonic regions (1.67%). In protein-coding genes, 54 150 missense mutations, 117 021 synonymous mutations, 74 667 3'UTR mutations, 73 start codon mutations, 1 162 stop-loss mutations, 210 start-loss mutations, and 2 346 stop-gain mutations were identified. The results of the phylogenetic tree, PCA, and Admixture analyses showed that each breed clustered independently, with significant differentiation among meat-type, dual-purpose, and egg-type duck groups. The relationships between different breeds were more based on economic use rather than geographical distance. FCD clustered with egg-type duck groups, particularly showing the closest relationship with Youxian duck. Genetic admixture was observed among some individuals of different duck breeds. Beijing duck and Jinding duck had higher inbreeding coefficients, fewer common SNPs, lower heterozygosity, and longer runs of homozygosity, indicating reduced genetic diversity due to strong artificial selection, whereas FCD exhibited the highest number of common SNPs and heterozygosity, indicating rich genetic diversity. 【Conclusion】 Using whole-genome SNP markers, this study systematically analyzed the genetic structure and diversity characteristics of Chinese indigenous ducks and Fengcheng ducks, providing important data support for the independent classification and conservation of Chinese indigenous duck resources.

    Discovery of the Animal Acupoint “Telocyte- Entanglement Complex” and Its Ultrastructural Characteristics
    DAI Meng, MEI Lu, LU Lu, ZHU QianMei, BAI XueBing, YANG Tong, ZHANG ZhenWei, YUE JianMing, HUANG HaiXiang, YANG Min, CHEN QiuSheng, WANG DeYun
    Scientia Agricultura Sinica. 2026, 59(11):  2526-2536.  doi:10.3864/j.issn.0578-1752.2026.11.016
    Abstract ( 16 )   HTML ( 1 )   PDF (3517KB) ( 22 )   Save
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    【Background】Clarification of acupoint essence is a core prerequisite for elucidating the mechanisms of acupuncture, yet the structural form of acupoints has not been fully clarified over the long term. Current research suggests that acupoint essence is related to specific structural systems, such as nerves, circulation, immunity, or fascia; however, these perspectives are not easily integrated. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupoints along meridians are special locations of the human body where “qi” and “xue” flow in and out. Based on the novel concept that “Telocyte (TC) is a potential meridian parenchymal cell”, this study further investigated the role of TCs and their associated structures within acupoint regions, so as to provide new experimental evidence for elucidating the material basis of acupoints and revealing the principles underlying acupuncture effects. 【Objective】The aim of this study was to clarify, using electron microscopy, the interactions between TCs and their elongated protrusion (telopode, Tp) within acupoint regions and various surrounding structural components, and to investigate whether specialized ultrastructural units related to acupoint functions exist, thereby providing a morphological foundation for elucidating the initial cellular responses to acupuncture.【Method】The study subjects included commonly used acupoints in rats, mice, rabbits, and sheep. Focusing on the ultrastructure of acupoint regions, this study primarily employed electron microscopy techniques. It examined the spatial relationships and interactions between TCs and their Tp in acupoint regions and various components, including nerves, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, immune cells, mast cells, extracellular vesicles (including exosomes), skin derivatives, acupoint matrix, and its fibers. 【Result】TEM revealed that TC and its Tp in the acupoint frequently entangled with or accompany various components, such as nerves, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, immune cells, mast cells, extracellular vesicles(including exosomes), skin derivatives, acupoint matrix, and fibers. Some Tp even extended into the interior of structures, directly contacting or connecting with target components to form new structural units-“Telocyte-entanglement complexes” (TCEC). Notably, TC and its Tps could simultaneously entangle with one or multiple special components, thereby forming distinct morphological units among the TCECs. The extensive connectivity characteristic of TC indicated the ultrafine evidence of the "holistic view" concept in TCM. Furthermore, TC wrapped around fibers and forms developed adhesive spots, anchoring tightly to the matrix within acupoints, which might be conducive to explaining that TC was the initial cell of acupuncture effects. This observation provided the morphological evidence for the connective and integrative functions of TC within acupoint tissues and has been preliminarily validated by acupuncture.【Conclusion】The study systematically revealed the complex spatial relationships between TC and Tp within acupoint regions and various structural components, identifying a neglected ultrastructural unit - TCEC at acupoints. This structure reflected both the integration of local cells and tissues and provided a morphological foundation for understanding the initial cellular-mechanical responses to acupuncture. The findings not only clarified the biological basis of acupoints but also provided a new research perspective at the ultrastructural level for elucidating the mechanisms underlying acupuncture effects.