Hongpeng Wang , Weichang Wu

Biotechnology Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, China
Author    Correspondence author
Legume Genomics and Genetics, 2025, Vol. 16, No. 3   
Received: 30 Apr., 2025    Accepted: 12 Jun., 2025    Published: 29 Jun., 2025

The single-cell RNA sequencing method known as scRNA-seq has revolutionized the study of plant root cellular complexity and developmental processes. The research combines modern scRNA-seq methods to study legume root development by showing how these methods help identify cell types and track cell lineages and detect short-lived cell populations. The research in Arabidopsis model systems produced complete root cell maps which revealed vital elements that regulate cell development and environmental adaptation thus enabling legume research. ScRNA-seq analysis of legumes has enabled researchers to study gene expression patterns in different cell types during root and nodule development which has enhanced our understanding of symbiotic processes and plant stress mechanisms. Single-cell plant research encounters technical barriers because of protoplasting artifacts and cell capture biases but scientists continue to develop their research through the combination of single-nucleus RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics. The research investigates the necessity of root cell atlases that span multiple species within legumes while exploring the combination of scRNA-seq with other omics methods and their potential to develop new crop improvement approaches based on single-cell research findings. ScRNA-seq technology has the potential to revolutionize our knowledge of legume root biology which will drive major breakthroughs in plant developmental research and sustainable agricultural methods.

Single-cell RNA sequencing; Legume root development; Cell type identification; Transcriptome atlas; Nitrogen fixation