March 3, 2026Open Access

BnALMT7-A4 encodes an aluminium-activated malate transporter that enhances aluminium tolerance in both Brassica napus L. and Arabidopsis thaliana

Key Points

Aluminium tolerance increased significantly in genetically engineered plants, demonstrating more robust root growth.
Increased malate transporter activity led to reduced aluminium accumulation in root tips by 30 percent.
Transcriptomic analysis indicated changes in stress-related gene expression in Brassica under aluminium treatment.
Potential agricultural impacts may include developing crops more resilient to soil aluminium toxicity and improving yields.

Abstract

We have identified a putative aluminium-activated malate transporter, BnALMT7-A4, that is induced by Al treatment in roots. We engineered Arabidopsis and Brassica overexpressing BnALMT7-A4 to generate Al-tolerant plants with improved root growth and reduced Al accumulation in root tips. Transcriptomic analysis of the Al-tolerant Brassica roots demonstrated modification of stress- and toxicity-specific gene expression. Thus, we have discovered a new way of making rapeseed, an important crop, more tolerant to Al stress.

BnALMT7-A4 encodes an aluminium-activated malate transporter that enhances aluminium tolerance in both Brassica napus L. and Arabidopsis thaliana

Key Points

Abstract

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