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bioRxiv · 10.64898/2025.11.30.691324

Foliar application of mixed DAMP- and MAMP-oligosaccharides enhances root growth and fruit yield in okra and tomato in greenhouse experiments

Pring, S.·Ashida, A.·Shima, Y.·Iwamoto, Y.·Saito, M.·Camagna, M.·Tanaka, A.·Sato, I.·Chiba, S.·Takemoto, D.
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Abstract

Plants perceive diverse endogenous and microbial molecular patterns that shape their defense, growth, and productivity. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) such as cello- and xylo-oligosaccharides, and microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) such as chitin-oligosaccharides, are known to promote both development and immunity. Here, we evaluated the combined application of these three oligosaccharides (Oligo-Mix) in okra and cherry tomato under greenhouse conditions. Regular foliar treatment with Oligo-Mix enhanced root elongation and biomass accumulation, and increased fruit number and yield in both crops. RNA-seq analysis of Oligo-Mix-treated tomato leaves showed coordinated induction of photosynthetic genes, components of the translational machinery, cell-wall remodeling factors, and enzymes involved in flavonoid/anthocyanin biosynthesis, indicating broad enhancement of metabolic capacity and protective secondary pathways. Together, these results demonstrate that Oligo-Mix functions as a biostimulant that supports both vegetative growth and fruit production, offering a sustainable approach to improving crop performance.

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Pring, S., Ashida, A., Shima, Y., Iwamoto, Y., Saito, M., Camagna, M., Tanaka, A., Sato, I., Chiba, S., Takemoto, D.. 2025-12-02. Foliar application of mixed DAMP- and MAMP-oligosaccharides enhances root growth and fruit yield in okra and tomato in greenhouse experiments. https://doi.org/10.64898/2025.11.30.691324

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