Identification and Functional Analysis of Candidate Genes Influencing Citrus Leaf Size Through Transcriptome and...

Area of Science:

• Plant Molecular Biology
• Genomics
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Citrus leaf size is crucial for photosynthesis and crop yield.
• Understanding the genetic regulation of leaf size is essential for citrus improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify regulatory networks and key genes controlling citrus leaf size.
• To provide theoretical and genetic resources for citrus leaf size research.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptome sequencing of three kumquat leaf varieties ('Cuimi' kumquat, larger-leaf, and smaller-leaf variants).
• Differential gene expression analysis, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses.
• Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) to identify key modules and candidate genes.

Main Results:

• Identified 7264 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 2374 transcription factors (TFs).
• Enrichment analysis highlighted pathways in glucose metabolism, cell wall composition, starch biosynthesis, and photosynthesis.
• Discovered 15 candidate genes related to leaf size, including three specific transcription factors (MYB, AP2/ERF, SAP).

Conclusions:

• The study elucidates molecular mechanisms governing citrus leaf size.
• Identified novel genetic resources for future research and breeding programs aimed at enhancing citrus leaf characteristics and yield.