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Heat stress during the reproductive stage is a major environmental challenge that can drastically reduce rapeseed growth and productivity. This study emphasizes the critical roles of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, along with autophagy, in boosting heat stress tolerance.
This study explores the effects of heat stress from climate change on rapeseed (Brassica napus) reproduction, comparing two varieties: heat-tolerant SAFI5 and heat-sensitive DH13. Under high temperatures, the sensitive variety (DH13) showed declines in pollen germination, viability, and seed production, along with increased superoxide (O₂-) accumulation, which harmed reproductive organs and reduced fertility. In contrast, the tolerant variety (SAFI5) demonstrated enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, greater autophagosome formation, and higher expression of autophagy-related genes such as BnATG8d and BnNBR1. The link between autophagosome formation and superoxide damage indicates that autophagy helps mitigate oxidative stress and safeguard reproductive tissues. These findings highlight the importance of antioxidant defenses and autophagy in heat tolerance, offering key insights for developing climate-resilient crops.
Figure. Antioxidant and autophagy mechanisms in response to heat stress in reproductive organs of rapeseed verities, DH13 and SAF15. Interaction of antioxidant and autophagy mechanisms lead to reduction of negative effects of superoxide and to recycle damaged proteins and organelles in pistil and anther.
Original Paper:
Mohammadi, V., Rezaeizadeh, A., Mondak, B., Rasoulnia, A., Domínguez-Figueroa, J., Carrillo, L., Romero-Hernandez, G., Medina, J. 2025. Unraveling the role of autophagy and antioxidants in anther and pistil responses to heat stress in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). Plant Cell Reports 44, 51. DOI: 10.1007/s00299-025-03437-6