phytogenic modulation of Cenchrus ciliaris seed germination revealed through transcriptomic analysis

This study explores the impact of a phytogenic product, containing citric acid, carvacrol, and cinnamaldehyde, on the germination process of buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) seeds. The experiment involves a dilution series of the phytogenic solution to determine the optimal concentration for promoting germination. The chosen concentration, 0.5%, is applied to buffel grass seeds, and the germination rates are monitored over a 28-day period. Transcriptomic analysis using RNA-seq is performed to investigate the gene expression changes in seedlings under the influence of the phytogenic product. Results reveal that the phytogenic treatment significantly alters gene expression, with a predominant upregulation of genes. Functional analysis indicates the involvement of key metabolic pathways, including the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, glycolysis, and pentose phosphate pathway. Moreover, pathways related to nucleotide biosynthesis, heme biosynthesis, and formyltetrahydrofolate biosynthesis show substantial modulation. The study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the phytogenic product's effects on seed germination and highlights its potential in promoting energy metabolism and essential biosynthetic pathways for plant growth.