The retinoblastoma-related gene RBL901 can trigger drought response actions in potato

Abstract

Abstract The cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the most important crops in the world. It is estimated that, globally, over the next few decades, drought will decrease potential potato yields and quality, which are the main determinants of potato tolerance to drought stress. Potato plants are sensitive to drought stress, although cultivar-dependent variability in the response to water deficiency has been observed (Nasir and Toth 2022). Photosynthesis in leaves provides the supplies needed for biomass accumulation, whereas potato tubers are strong sink organs. Understanding the biological basis of decreases in potato tuber yields and quality in response to water shortage, considering the responses of leaves, is a serious agronomic challenge (Boguszewska-Mańkowska et al. 2020).