Plant Gene and Trait 2025, Vol.16, No.4, 142-151 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 148 2022a). In addition, many existing dwarfing rootstocks have a single source and a narrow genetic basis. As a result, they are more prone to pests and diseases and also more likely to experience a decline in adaptability (Ling et al., 2025) 9.2 Inconsistent performance across environments The performance of dwarfing rootstocks varies greatly in different regions. In some places, the effect is very good, which can increase the yield and quality. However, in other places, there may be poor growth or decreased resistance (Yakushiji et al., 2021). This “instability” makes it difficult for them to be promoted and used nationwide or in more regions. Therefore, it is necessary to have an in-depth understanding of how they respond to the environment and to enhance their stability through methods such as molecular breeding (Anthony and Musacchi, 2021; Hayat et al., 2023b). 9.3 Need for integration with root microbiome and stress signaling research At present, most of the research on dwarfing rootstocks focuses on physiological mechanisms such as hormone regulation and carbohydrate distribution. However, there is insufficient research on their relationship with root microorganisms and how to regulate signals under adverse conditions (Hayat et al., 2022a; Gu et al., 2023). In fact, rhizosphere microorganisms are very important for plant health and stress resistance. In the future, more research should be conducted on the interaction between dwarfing rootstocks and these microorganisms, as well as their signal response mechanisms under stress such as drought and saline-alkali conditions. Combining multiple omics approaches is expected to better improve and utilize dwarfing rootstocks (Ling et al., 2025). 10 Concluding Remarks Dwarfing rootstocks can regulate the growth vigor, fruit quality and stress resistance of tomato plants, and are an important foundation for achieving high-density planting and high-yield cultivation. Many studies have found that after grafting with dwarfing rootstocks, the fruit weight, flesh thickness, fruit length and diameter of tomatoes are significantly improved, and their pest resistance and nutritional value can also be enhanced. The rootstock and scion interact with each other. Together, they regulate hormone signals, photosynthesis, and the transport of nutrients and water, thereby altering the plant structure and growth performance, and helping to increase yield and quality. Especially in adverse environments such as saline-alkali, high temperature and drought, dwarfing rootstocks can make the yield more stable and the resistance stronger. In the future, research should pay more attention to the molecular mechanisms of dwarfing rootstocks. Gene editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to rapidly cultivate new varieties suitable for large-scale production while retaining the original good traits. Functional genomics research can also help us identify the key genes and signaling pathways that regulate growth, stress resistance and quality improvement in rootstocks. In the design of production systems, it is best to integrate high-throughput phenotypic technology, precise irrigation and high-density cultivation methods, and optimize the combination of rootstocks and scions, so as to achieve more efficient resource utilization and better environmental adaptability. In the face of various challenges brought about by climate change, such as high temperatures, droughts and soil salinization, dwarfing rootstocks have played a significant role. It can enhance water utilization efficiency, increase nutrient absorption capacity, and improve stress resistance, ensuring stable production and quality of tomatoes even under extreme weather conditions. Meanwhile, dwarfing rootstocks are also suitable for facility agriculture, high-density planting and organic production, providing a new direction for future sustainable, efficient and climate-risk-resistant tomato cultivation methods. Acknowledgments The authors thank Dr. Dai for his modification suggestions on the manuscript of this study. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==