Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.6, 287-297 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 295 findings into practical applications, such as the development of stress-resistant kiwifruit varieties (Jin et al., 2021; Abid et al., 2022). International collaborations can also provide access to diverse germplasm resources and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and technologies, thereby accelerating the progress in this field (Xing et al., 2023; Zhang et al., 2023). By addressing these research gaps and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, we can enhance the resilience of kiwifruit to environmental stresses, ensuring sustainable production and improved crop yields in the face of climate change. 9 Concluding Remarks This study has highlighted several key mechanisms by which kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) exhibit resistance to various environmental stresses. The studies reviewed have identified specific genes and molecular pathways that contribute to stress tolerance. Drought and salinity tolerance is enhanced by the R1R2R3-MYB transcription factor AcMYB3R, which upregulates stress-responsive genes such as RD29A, RD29B, COR15A, and RD22. In terms of disease resistance, miR160d and AcPGIP play significant roles in enhancing resistance to Botrytis cinerea by regulating antioxidant enzyme activities and hormone levels. Heat stress tolerance is mediated by heat shock transcription factors (Hsfs) such as AcHsfA2a, which are crucial for high-temperature tolerance, with their expression being induced under heat stress conditions. Cold stress responses are regulated by the bZIP transcription factors AchnABF1 and AcePosF21, which enhance cold tolerance through the regulation of ROS metabolism and ascorbic acid biosynthesis. Waterlogging tolerance has been linked to carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, along with ROS scavenging pathways, as revealed by transcriptome analysis of A. valvata. Insect resistance in the cultivar "LC-04285" is attributed to a thicker cuticle and higher expression of genes related to jasmonic acid and salicylic acid pathways, which contribute to its higher resistance to Pseudaulacaspis pentagona. The findings from these studies have significant implications for the breeding and cultivation of kiwifruit. Molecular breeding involves the identification of key genes such as AcMYB3R, Ac-miR160d, and AcPGIP, which provide valuable targets for molecular breeding programs aimed at enhancing stress resistance in kiwifruit. Transgenic approaches, such as the overexpression of stress-responsive genes in transgenic plants, can be a viable strategy to improve drought, salinity, and cold tolerance, as demonstrated by the enhanced tolerance in Arabidopsis models. Cultivar selection focuses on selecting and cultivating kiwifruit cultivars with naturally higher resistance to specific stresses, such as "LC-04285" for insect resistance and A. valvata for waterlogging tolerance, which can improve yield and fruit quality. Pre-harvest treatments, including the application of substances like oxalic acid, can enhance postharvest quality and disease resistance, providing a practical approach to managing stress during storage. Future research on stress resistance in kiwifruit should focus on several key areas. Functional genomics involves the further functional characterization of identified genes and their regulatory networks, which will provide deeper insights into the molecular mechanisms of stress resistance. Gene editing, using advanced technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9, can be employed to precisely modify stress-responsive genes, enhancing the development of stress-resistant kiwifruit varieties. Integrated stress management combines genetic approaches with agronomic practices, such as optimized irrigation and nutrient management, which will be crucial for developing comprehensive strategies to mitigate environmental stresses. Climate change adaptation is increasingly important as global temperatures rise. Understanding and enhancing heat and drought tolerance in kiwifruit should be a priority, with research focusing on the identification of heat-tolerant genes and the development of heat-resistant cultivars. In conclusion, the integration of molecular breeding, transgenic approaches, and practical cultivation strategies holds great promise for improving the resilience of kiwifruit to environmental stresses, ensuring sustainable production and high-quality fruit in the face of changing climatic conditions. Acknowledgments I am grateful to Dr. Dong for critically reading the manuscript and providing valuable feedback that improved the clarity of the text. We express our heartfelt gratitude to the two anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments on the manuscript.
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