Eleusine indica (goosegrass) is a widespread invasive species that poses a significant threat to global agriculture, particularly due to its evolving resistance to glyphosate. While resistance mechanisms such as the Pro106 mutation in the 5-enolpyruvyl-shikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) gene are well-characterized, mechanisms can vary significantly by geography. This study investigated the molecular basis of glyphosate resistance in a Korean genotype of E. indica. Unlike genotype reported in other regions, such as Mexico, no Pro106 mutation was detected in the EPSPS gene of the Korean samples. However, Target Site Resistance (TSR) was suggested to be mediated by significant overexpression of EPSPS in glyphosate-treated plants compared to controls. Concurrently, Non-Target Site Resistance (NTSR) mechanisms played a critical role; differential expression analysis revealed the upregulation of key detoxification gene families, including Cytochrome P450s (CYP450), Glutathione S-transferases (GST), and Glycosyltransferases (GT). Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses indicated a metabolic shift involving the activation of glutathione metabolism and MAPK signaling, coupled with a suppression of photosynthesis-related pathways, suggesting an energy reallocation strategy for survival. These findings demonstrate that glyphosate resistance in Korean E. indica is likely mediated by a complex interplay of EPSPS overexpression and metabolic adaptation, underscoring the importance of understanding regional genetic diversity for developing effective weed management strategies.
In this study, Quercus acutissima seedlings were subjected to drought for 30 days then analyzed to determine their response to water deficit. The growth phenotype, chlorophyll fluorescence response, fresh weight, dry weight, photosynthetic pigment levels, soluble sugar content, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured to evaluate the effects of drought on plant growth and physiology. The growth phenotype was observed by infrared (IR) digital thermal imaging after 30 days of drought treatment. The maximum, average, and minimum temperatures of drought-treated plant leaves were 1–2°C higher than those of the control. In contrast, the fresh and dry weights of the dehydrated leaves were generally lower than those of the control. There were no significant differences between treatments in terms of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid levels. Nevertheless, for the drought treatment, the Fv/Fm and Fv/Fo ratios (chlorophyll fluorescence response) were lower than those for the control. Therefore, photosynthetic activity was lower in the dehydrated plants than the control. The drought-stressed Q. acutissima S0536 had lower soluble sugar (glucose and fructose) and higher MDA levels than the controls. These findings may explain the early growth and physiological responses of Q. acutissima to dehydration and facilitate the selection of drought-resistant tree families.
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