Anatomical and Transcriptomic Analyses Revealed the Key Genes Associated with Tuber Expansion in Cyperus esculentus L

Area of Science:

• Plant Science
• Crop Science
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Cyperus esculentus L. is a vital tuber oil crop where tuber size impacts yield and oil storage.
• Understanding tuber expansion patterns and associated genes is crucial for improving this crop.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the tuber expansion pattern in Cyperus esculentus.
• To identify key genes and transcription factors regulating tuber expansion for crop enhancement.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive morphological, cytological, and transcriptomic analyses of tubers at multiple developmental stages (1-15 days).
• Identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and transcription factors (TFs) using transcriptome sequencing.
• Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and RT-qPCR for gene expression verification.

Main Results:

• Cyperus esculentus tubers exhibit rapid expansion from 1-15 days post-formation, primarily through cell expansion.
• 822 DEGs associated with tuber expansion were identified, with 20 genes enriched in cell wall-related functions, including five expansin genes.
• 57 differentially expressed TFs were identified as potentially regulating tuber expansion.

Conclusions:

• The study reveals the tuber expansion dynamics in Cyperus esculentus, highlighting cell expansion as the primary driver.
• Key genes, particularly expansins, and transcription factors involved in tuber expansion were identified.
• These findings provide a foundation for constructing regulatory networks and understanding tuber expansion mechanisms in Cyperus esculentus.