Fuente: PubMed "Tomato process" BMC Plant Biol. 2026 Jul 18. doi: 10.1186/s12870-026-09547-x. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTPectin acetylesterase (PAE) regulates pectin acetylation, which affects plant growth, development, and stress tolerance. While their functions are well-defined in models like Arabidopsis, we still know surprisingly little about how they operate in tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum). We identified 17 SlPAE genes using tomato genome-wide analysis. These genes were classified phylogenetically into three conserved subfamilies, with branch members sharing domain architectures, motifs, and genomic structure. Promoter cis-element analysis identified multiple motifs related to hormone signaling, light response, and stress response. Spatiotemporal expression patterns obtained via qRT-PCR revealed the functional roles of SlPAE genes. Notably, silencing SlPAE16 effectively retarded pedicel abscission, a process mediated by the inhibition of TAPG1/2/4 expression. These findings clarify the functional diversity within the PAE gene family, providing a much-needed framework for future research into their specific biological roles in tomatoes.PMID:42471563 | DOI:10.1186/s12870-026-09547-x