Characterization of key genes involved in anthocyanins biosynthesis in Nelumbo nucifera through RNA-Seq

Abstract

The ornamental value of the lotus flower is largely determined by its color. To further understand the regulatory mechanism underlying the anthocyanin pigmentation, digital gene expression analyses through RNA-seq were performed on the early developmental stages of leaf and flower buds during the coloration process in lotus cultivar ‘Yehonglian’ (with red flowers). A total of 13022 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified with the largest number of DEGs being enriched in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, especially the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway. Further analysis revealed that 47 DEGs were involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway and one anthocyanin-3-O-glucosyltransferase (UFGT) coding gene may be the key player in anthocyanin biosynthesis during the development of lotus flower and leaf buds. Additionally, 5 MYB, 2 bHLH, and 1 WD-repeat gene may be the candidate transcription factors that regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis. This study characterized potential candidate genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis and might provide new insights into the coloration mechanisms of lotus.