Expression analysis of key curding and flowering genes in diverse thermosensory groups of cauliflower

Abstract

Cauliflower is a highly thermosensitive crop with complex developmental transitions that are intricately regulated by genotype-specific, environment-responsive genetic mechanisms. Understanding the genetic behavior of key genes is crucial for mitigating temperature factors in cauliflower production. Substantial differences in expression patterns were observed among the cauliflower genotypes. During curd initiation, Pusa Sharad displayed notable upregulation of BoREM1, CCE1, BoFT, and BoVRN2 genes; Pusa Shukti showed increased expression of BoREM1 and BoFUL-d; and in Pusa Snowball Kt-25, BoREM1 and CCE1 genes were remarkably upregulated. The expression of BoLFY, BoCAL, and BoTFL1 genes was downregulated in all three genotypes at curd initiation. Interestingly, the expression of all genes was relatively lower in the temperate genotype Pusa Snowball Kt-25 compared to Indian types. Increased expression of BoREM1, BoLFY, and BoFUL-d genes at curd loosening in Pusa Sharad indicated their probable association with curd to bolting stage transition. The study holds the potential for further understanding the genetic regulation of curding and flowering, to expand the thermosensitive plasticity of cauliflower genotypes.