Analysis of Salinity Tolerance in African Night Shade Lines Based on Morpho-Physiological and Molecular Traits

Salinity-induced stress poses a significant threat to global agriculture, affecting crop yields in various regions. This study investigates salinity tolerance in African nightshade lines (Solanum section solanum/Solanum nigrum complex), essential leafy vegetables in Africa. The research combines morpho-physiological and molecular approaches to assess six African nightshade lines for their response to different salinity levels (0mM, 60mM, and 120mM NaCl). The experiment employs a randomized complete block design, analyzing plant height, dry weight, leaf damage, and root morphological adaptations. Additionally, gene expression analysis, focusing on key salt tolerance-related genes (HKT, NCED3, ERF3, and P5CS1), is conducted using qRT-PCR. The study hypothesizes varying responses among the African nightshade lines, addressing gene expression, morphology, physiology, and root adaptations under salt stress. Expected outcomes include identifying salt-tolerant lines exhibiting improved growth and upregulated expression of key genes. The findings aim to contribute to breeding programs by unveiling the physiological and molecular mechanisms crucial for salt stress tolerance. Moreover, the study sheds light on HKT genes' role in ion regulation, NCED3 in abscisic acid biosynthesis, ERF3 in ethylene signaling, and P5CS1 in proline biosynthesis. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into developing salt-tolerant varieties, enhancing food security, and mitigating the impacts of salinity in African nightshades and related crops.