Abstract
Training systems generally alter tree architecture, which modulates light microclimate within the canopy, for the purpose of improving photosynthetic efficiency and fruit quality. Gene expression quantification is one of the most important methods for exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying the influence of training systems on pear photosynthesis, and suitable reference genes for gene expression normalization are a prerequisite for this method. In this study, the expression stability of nine common and four novel candidate genes were evaluated in 14 different pear leaf samples in two training systems, including those at four developmental stages (training_period) and from different parts of the trees (training_space), using two distinct algorithms, geNorm and NormFinder. Our results revealed that SKD1 (Suppressor of K+ Transport Growth Defect1)/ YLS8 (Yellow Leaf Specific 8) and ARM (Armadillo) were the most stable single reference genes for the ‘training_period’ and ‘training_space’ subsets, respectively, although these single genes were not as stable as the optimal pairs of reference genes, SKD1+YLS8 and ARM+YLS8, respectively. Furthermore, the expression levels of the PpsAPX (Ascorbate peroxidase) gene showed that the arbitrary use of reference genes without previous testing could lead to misinterpretation of data. This work constitutes the first systematic analysis regarding the selection of superior reference genes in training system studies, facilitating the elucidation of gene function in pear and providing valuable information for similar studies in other higher plants.
Highlights
Pear is one of the most economically important deciduous fruit trees globally, and training is a vital cultivation technique to maintain its optimal fruit quality
Our data provide optimal single or multiple reference gene(s) that will enable more accurate and reliable quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) normalization for gene expression studies in pear under distinct training systems and canopy positions. These results provide a useful basis for future gene expression analysis in studies of pear training system
Gene expression analysis based on the qRT-PCR technique is a useful research method for increasing our Reference gene selection for qRT-PCR analysis in pear under distinct training systems understanding of the interactions between training systems and photosynthetic efficiencyrelated gene function
Summary
Pear is one of the most economically important deciduous fruit trees globally, and training is a vital cultivation technique to maintain its optimal fruit quality. A good training system is an important foundation for manipulations of tree planting arrangement and canopy geometry to improve the penetration and distribution of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) for the purpose of optimizing photosynthetic carbon fixation and fruit quality [1]. Reference gene selection for qRT-PCR analysis in pear under distinct training systems design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
