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This content will become publicly available on June 17, 2026

Title: Cryptic isoprene emission of soybeans
Isoprene is the most abundant nonmethane biogenic hydrocarbon emitted by some plants, mostly trees. It plays critical roles in atmospheric chemistry by contributing to ozone and aerosol formation. Isoprene also benefits plants, particularly under stress, through its signaling roles. Legume crops like soybean were thought to have evolutionarily lost isoprene synthase (ISPS) and are typically considered nonemitters. Here, we report that damage to soybean leaves by wounding or burning triggered a burst of isoprene emission from the undamaged part of the leaves. In silico analysis identified intactISPSgenes in the soybean genome, with features similar to known ISPSs. Protein made from these gene sequences catalyzed isoprene production in the presence of dimethylallyl diphosphate. Isoprene emission in soybeans was linked to reduced photosynthesis rates and stomatal conductance. Metabolomic analysis showed that leaf damage caused a surge in glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate and pyruvate levels, leading to an increase of most of the methylerythritol 4-phosphate pathway metabolites.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
2022495
PAR ID:
10639339
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ; ; ; ; ;
Publisher / Repository:
NAS
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Volume:
122
Issue:
24
ISSN:
0027-8424
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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