Identification and validation of reference genes for transcript normalization in strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa)...

Area of Science:

• Plant Genomics
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Strawberry (Fragaria spp.) is a key model for rosaceous crop genomics.
• Accurate gene expression quantification is vital for functional genomic studies.
• Validated reference genes are lacking for strawberry-pathogen interaction research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and validate optimal endogenous reference genes for gene expression normalization in strawberry.
• To establish reliable controls for studies on strawberry plant defense responses.

Main Methods:

• Tested 13 candidate reference genes across diverse strawberry tissues, cultivars, and stress conditions.
• Utilized five distinct methodologies for evaluating gene expression stability.
• Integrated data from all methods for robust reference gene selection.

Main Results:

• Identified FaRIB413, FaACTIN, FaEF1α, and FaGAPDH2 as superior reference genes.
• Demonstrated the suitability of these genes under various experimental conditions.
• Provided a systematic validation approach for reference gene selection.

Conclusions:

• FaRIB413, FaACTIN, FaEF1α, and FaGAPDH2 are highly recommended for normalizing gene expression in strawberry.
• This study establishes a foundation for accurate molecular analyses in strawberry, particularly in plant defense research.