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Updated: May 5, 2026

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Annotation of Plant Gene Function via Combined Genomics, Metabolomics and Informatics
Published on: June 17, 2012
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Analysis of Axillary Bud Germination Regulatory Network in Sugarcane Based on Transcriptome and Weighted Gene
Yanye Li1,2,3, Ting Yang1,2,3, Zongtao Yang1,2,3
1Yunnan Key National Key Laboratory of Tropical Crop Breeding, Kunming 650205, China.
Plants (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 4, 2026
Summary
Sugarcane axillary bud germination involves complex hormonal regulation. This study identifies key hormones and gene networks, offering insights for breeding improved sugarcane varieties with better emergence and tillering capacity.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Axillary bud germination in sugarcane is crucial for crop establishment and yield.
- The molecular mechanisms governing sugarcane bud germination are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hormonal dynamics and transcriptomic changes during sugarcane axillary bud germination.
- To identify key genes and regulatory networks involved in this process.
- To provide candidate genes for improving sugarcane emergence and tillering.
Main Methods:
- Hormonal profiling across five developmental stages.
- RNA sequencing to analyze transcriptomic profiles.
- Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA).
- RT-qPCR validation of gene expression.
Main Results:
- Abscisic acid (ABA) levels fluctuated, while indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellin (GA) decreased, suggesting negative roles.
- Cytokinin (CTK) and ethylene (ETH) levels increased, indicating positive regulatory functions.
- 31,513 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, enriched in hormone signaling, metabolism, and photosynthesis pathways.
- Key regulatory modules and seven core transcription factors (e.g., ScTCP5) were identified.
Conclusions:
- Hormonal balance and specific gene networks are critical for sugarcane axillary bud germination.
- Identified candidate genes and transcription factors can be utilized for breeding superior sugarcane varieties.
- This research enhances our understanding of a vital agronomic trait in sugarcane.

