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Published on: May 31, 2008
Transcriptome-Based Identification of AP2/EREBP Genes Regulating Cuticle Formation in Tree Peony 'Bai Wang Shi Zi'
Xu Li1, Zhimin Huang2, Conghao Hong1
1National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Efficient Production of Forest Resources, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
Researchers identified key APETALA2/Ethylene-Responsive Element Binding Protein (AP2/EREBP) genes in tree peony petals. These genes, particularly PsSHN1 and PsWRI3, may enhance cuticular wax, potentially increasing flower longevity and improving ornamental plant breeding.
Area of Science:
- Plant Molecular Biology
- Transcriptomics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa) flowers have limited longevity due to petal water loss.
- Cuticular wax is crucial for preventing non-stomatal water loss in plants.
- The APETALA2/Ethylene-Responsive Element Binding Protein (AP2/EREBP) transcription factor family regulates wax biosynthesis, but its role in tree peony petals is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize AP2/EREBP genes involved in petal cuticle formation in tree peony.
- To investigate the expression patterns of these genes during petal development.
- To explore the regulatory relationships between AP2/EREBP genes and downstream wax biosynthesis genes.
Main Methods:
- Transcriptome sequencing of tree peony petals at three developmental stages.
- Phylogenetic analysis to classify AP2/EREBP family members.
- Expression profiling and co-expression analysis.
- Dual-luciferase reporter assays to validate gene promoter activation.
Main Results:
- Identified 29 high-confidence AP2/EREBP genes in tree peony, classified into AP2, ERF, and DREB subfamilies.
- Found 18 AP2/EREBP genes with stage-specific expression patterns during petal development.
- Discovered that PsSHN1 and PsWRI3 activate the promoters of downstream wax-related genes (PsCER2, PsKAS1, PsLTPG1), suggesting cooperative regulation of cuticle formation.
Conclusions:
- PsSHN1 and PsWRI3 are promising candidate genes for enhancing petal cuticular wax in tree peony.
- These findings provide a foundation for molecular breeding to improve floral longevity and quality in ornamental flowers.
- Understanding AP2/EREBP gene function in tree peony can aid in developing strategies for prolonged flower lifespan.
