MdLRR-RLK1-MdATG3 module enhances the resistance of apples to abiotic stress via autophagy

Abstract LRR-RLKs play a key role in plant responses to stress, although their physiological functions under abiotic stress are not yet fully understood. MdLRR-RLK1 was found to regulate plant growth and development and to increase tolerance to salt and drought stress. MdLRR-RLK1 interacts with MdATG3, which ubiquitinates and degrades MdLRR-RLK1. MdATG3 enhances salt and drought tolerance through autophagy, interacting with MdATG8F/I-like in apple. These findings reveal the interaction between MdLRR-RLK1 and MdATG3, suggesting mechanisms that regulate apple growth and resistance to abiotic stress.