Genome-wide identification of MtTCTPs and functional analysis of MtTCTP3 as a positive regulator of nodulation in Medicago truncatula.

MtTCTP3 acts as a positive regulator of nodulation, with overexpression increasing nodule formation by 50% and silencing reducing nodules and nitrogenase activity in Medicago truncatula.

• Why it matters: Understanding the molecular mechanisms of legume-rhizobium symbiosis is crucial for improving biological nitrogen fixation and crop productivity, yet the role of TCTP proteins in this process remains unclear.
• What they did: Researchers identified five MtTCTP genes in Medicago truncatula and focused on MtTCTP3, analyzing its expression, interactions with ethylene receptors, and effects on nodulation through overexpression and RNA interference.
• The result: Findings demonstrate that MtTCTP3 enhances nodule development and longevity by modulating ethylene signaling pathways, providing insights into genetic regulation of symbiosis and potential targets for crop improvement.