Dynamic Transcriptome Profiling Reveals Key Regulatory Networks Underlying Curd Development in Cauliflower (Brassica...

Area of Science:

• Plant Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Molecular Genetics

Background:

• Cauliflower curd formation is a complex process regulated by genes and physiology.
• Understanding this process is key for improving Brassicaceae crops.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying cauliflower curd formation.
• To identify key genes and pathways involved in curd development.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptome sequencing of cauliflower curd and peduncle tissues across developmental stages.
• Analysis of gene expression patterns, focusing on photosynthesis, glucosinolate biosynthesis, floral transition, and hormone signaling pathways.

Main Results:

• Genes for photosynthesis and glucosinolate biosynthesis are upregulated in the shoot apical meristem (SAM) during early curd development.
• Floral transition regulators (AP2, MADS-box factors) are activated, initiating curd primordia.
• Hormone signaling pathways (auxin, jasmonic acid, brassinosteroid) are activated during SAM proliferation and peduncle elongation.

Conclusions:

• An integrated regulatory network links metabolism, hormone signaling, and development in cauliflower curd formation.
• Identified key molecular players and pathways provide targets for genetic improvement of Brassicaceae crops.