Transcriptomic analysis of Malus robusta roots inoculated with ericoid mycorrhizal fungus RM2 under drought stress

To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying drought tolerance conferred by the ericoid mycorrhizal fungus RM2 in apple rootstocks, we performed RNA-seq analysis on Malus robusta roots. The study included two groups under drought stress: non-inoculated control seedlings (-ERMF) and RM2-inoculated seedlings (+ERMF). Comparative transcriptomic analysis was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to phytohormone signaling, oxidative stress response, and root system architecture remodeling. This dataset provides insights into the potential of ERM fungi as biostimulants for sustainable forestry and horticulture.