# Transcriptomic Insights into the Dual-Modulatory Role of EGCG in Alleviating Glyphosate-Induced Oxidative Stress in Cucumis melo

## TL;DR

This study shows that EGCG can reduce glyphosate's harmful effects in melons by lowering herbicide residues and improving plant stress responses.

## Contribution

The study reveals EGCG's dual role in mitigating oxidative stress and promoting metabolic pathways in melon plants exposed to glyphosate.

## Key findings

- EGCG significantly reduced glyphosate residues in melon tissues.
- EGCG redirected gene expression toward flavonoid and phenylalanine biosynthesis pathways.
- EGCG modulated antioxidant gene expression, including APX, SOD, and GST.

## Abstract

Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides in agricultural, horticultural, and urban environments. However, its residue accumulation and oxidative damage pose serious threats to crop health and food safety. In this study, we evaluated the potential of epigallocatechin gallate, a natural polyphenol derived from tea, to alleviate glyphosate-induced stress in melon (Cucumis melo L.). LC-MS/MS analysis revealed that EGCG significantly reduced glyphosate residues in plant tissues. Transcriptome analysis indicated that glyphosate induced extensive transcriptional reprogramming, activating genes involved in detoxification and antioxidant defense. Co-treatment with glyphosate and EGCG partially mitigated this stress response and redirected gene expression toward secondary metabolic pathways, particularly flavonoid and phenylalanine biosynthesis. Under herbicide stress, EGCG restored the transcription of key flavonoid biosynthetic genes, including PAL, C4H, CHI, and OMT. Meanwhile, EGCG also modulated the expression of APX, SOD, and GST, suggesting a selective effect on antioxidant systems. Co-expression network analysis identified key hub genes associated with oxidative stress and flavonoid metabolism. These findings demonstrate the dual regulatory role of EGCG in suppressing acute oxidative stress while enhancing metabolic adaptability, highlighting its potential as a natural additive for reducing herbicide residues in fruit crops.