Chromosome‐scale reference genome provides insights into the genetic origin and grafting‐mediated stress tolerance of Malus prunifolia

Hi-C technology was used for chromosome genome assembly. Combined transcriptome and metabolome data before and after grafting were analyzed to resolve graft-mediated stress regulatory networks.
Key Findings:
High-quality chromosome-scale genome assembly and gene annotation of Malus prunifolia were completed.
Rootstock regulates scion stress tolerance through long-distance signal translocation, and the underlying molecular pathway was elucidated.
Key regulatory genes for salt and drought tolerance upon grafting were excavated, providing molecular markers for breeding resistant apple rootstocks.