MdSCL13 coordinates with MdTCP2 to positively regulate cold tolerance by mediating ROS scavenging and JA biosynthesis

Summary The SCL13 is a Scarecrow‐like (SCL) protein. However, whether and how it plays a functional role under cold stress in apple remains largely unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that MdSCL13 responds to cold and plays a positive role in regulating apple cold tolerance. RNA‐seq and RT‐qPCR analyses revealed that MdSCL13 regulates the expression of genes associated with cold response, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification, and jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis. In addition, the apple