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Keywords = Floral transition

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19 pages, 13272 KB  
Article
The MADS-Box Transcription Factor BoAGL8 Is Involved in Regulating Flowering in Broccoli
by Yuanyuan Li, Hanbing Yang, Peini Jia, Zairong Li, Yan Wang, Yajie Jiang, Xia He, Boyue Wen, Chensi Huo, Wei Zhang, Wenchen Chai, Shijiang Yan and Jing Zhang
Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101227 - 11 Oct 2025
Viewed by 163
Abstract
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) is a biennial or annual herbaceous plant belonging to the species Brassica oleracea in the genus Brassica of the Cruciferae family. The green flower curd serves as the primary edible organ, with its development and [...] Read more.
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) is a biennial or annual herbaceous plant belonging to the species Brassica oleracea in the genus Brassica of the Cruciferae family. The green flower curd serves as the primary edible organ, with its development and preservation critically determining broccoli yield and quality. Given that these processes are regulated by flowering time, understanding the mechanisms underlying floral transition is essential for enhancing broccoli yield and quality. This study aimed to identify the MADS-box family in broccoli and to investigate the function of the BoAGL8 gene in floral induction. We identified a total of 176 MADS-box genes, of which 54 genes were up-regulated and 50 genes were down-regulated under low-temperature treatment. Notably, the expression of BoAGL8 was up-regulated by 6.70-fold under low-temperature induction, prompting us to select and clone this gene for further analysis. Tissue-specific expression profiling further revealed that BoAGL8 is expressed at relatively high level in both mature and young leaves. After 15 days of low-temperature treatment, BoAGL8 expression in shoot tip was significantly upregulated compared to untreated controls. Subcellular localization analysis showed that BoAGL8 protein was located to the nucleus. Ectopic over-expression of BoAGL8 in Arabidopsis exhibited accelerated bolting and flowering, reduced rosette leaf number, and increased seed yield per plant compared to wild-type plants. Furthermore, compared to wild-type controls, transgenic lines exhibited upregulated expression of AtFT, AtAP1 and AtSEP3, alongside downregulation of SVP expression. The above results indicate that BoAGL8 may play a key regulatory role in the process of floral organ development in broccoli, providing an important theoretical basis for future research on flowering time regulation and breeding in broccoli. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Genetic Breeding and Biotechnology of Garden Plants)
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21 pages, 3347 KB  
Article
Dynamic Metabolome and Transcriptome Profiling Provide Molecular Insights into Floral Bud Differentiation in Michelia ‘Xin’
by Yan Chen, Dapeng Li, Xiaoling Ji, Caixian Liu and Chenfei Huang
Biology 2025, 14(10), 1383; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14101383 - 10 Oct 2025
Viewed by 229
Abstract
Michelia ‘Xin’ is an evergreen rare ornamental tree species that undergoes FBD only once but blooms twice a year. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling its FBD process remain largely unknown. This study characterized the FBD process and delved into the key molecular regulatory [...] Read more.
Michelia ‘Xin’ is an evergreen rare ornamental tree species that undergoes FBD only once but blooms twice a year. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling its FBD process remain largely unknown. This study characterized the FBD process and delved into the key molecular regulatory mechanisms through transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of developing flower buds. FBD in Michelia ‘Xin’ was characterized into five stages, including vegetative (T1), floral meristem transition (T2), tepal primordia differentiation (T3), stamen primordia differentiation (T4), and pistil primordia differentiation (T5). Analyses revealed a stage-specific metabolic and transcriptional regulation of FBD, with increasing numbers of differential metabolites and a decreasing number of DEGs from T1 to T5. Most phytohormone and transcription factor-related DEGs were highly induced from T2. The down-regulation of dormancy-associated protein homologs and CONSTANS-LIKE proteins associated with significant induction of flowering-promoting factor, CLAVATA3, trichome birefringence-like, and GRAVITROPIC IN THE LIGHT proteins was essential for the induction and reproductive organs’ development. Porphyrin biosynthesis, chlorophyll a-b binding proteins, DNA replication, flavonoid biosynthesis, and starch and sucrose metabolism were also significantly induced from T2. Key pivotal candidate genes were screened out. Our results provide fundamental resources for dissecting the molecular network regulating FBD and molecular-assisted flowering control in Michelia ‘Xin’. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Potential of Genetics and Plant Breeding in Crop Improvement)
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13 pages, 1749 KB  
Article
Characteristics of Floral Volatiles and Their Effects on Attracting Pollinating Insects in Three Bidens Species with Sympatric Distribution
by Jun-Wei Ye, Jing-Lin Jia, Yong-Hong Xiao, Jia-Hui Zhou and Jian-Jun Zeng
Biology 2025, 14(10), 1310; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14101310 - 23 Sep 2025
Viewed by 463
Abstract
The transition from outcrossing to self-pollination is an evolutionary process in angiosperms. However, the changes in floral volatile composition during this process and their impacts on the behavior of pollinators are poorly understood. Therefore, this study investigated the potential differences in the floral [...] Read more.
The transition from outcrossing to self-pollination is an evolutionary process in angiosperms. However, the changes in floral volatile composition during this process and their impacts on the behavior of pollinators are poorly understood. Therefore, this study investigated the potential differences in the floral volatile profiles and pollinator attraction capabilities of three invasive Bidens species. The results indicated that Bidens pilosa var. radiata (BH), which serves as a transitional species between facultative outcrossing and obligate outcrossing attracts a greater diversity and abundance of pollinators such as Apis cerana compared to the more self-compatible Bidens frondosa (DL) and Bidens pilosa var. pilosa (SY). Furthermore, a total of 37, 33, and 34 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) were identified in the floral volatiles of BH, DL, and SY, respectively, with no discernible trend of decreased number of floral VOCs owing to increased self-pollination ability. Moreover, eleven significantly different compounds in the floral volatiles of the three Bidens species were obtained. Among these (E)-β-Ocimene (18.31 ± 1.10%) and (Z)-β-Ocimene (33.93 ± 3.49%) in the floral volatiles of BH (52.24 ± 4.59%) was significantly higher than that of DL (1.72 ± 0.50%) and SY (0.32 ± 0.19%). Additionally, Y-tube olfactometer behavioral assays indicated that (E)- and (Z)-β-Ocimene significantly attracted A. cerana. These findings suggested that (E)- and (Z)-β-Ocimene contribute to the attractiveness of BH to local pollinators. Furthermore, it can be inferred that within Bidens, stronger self-pollination ability reduces the relative content of VOCs—such as (E)- and (Z)-β-Ocimene—used to attract generalist pollinators. Full article
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14 pages, 2469 KB  
Article
WUSCHEL Transcription Factor Regulates Floral Development in ‘Jizaomi’ Grapevine
by Zedong Sun, Huan Xu, Wenxuan Shi, Jialin Fu, Pengfei Wen, Jinjun Liang and Pengfei Zhang
Horticulturae 2025, 11(9), 1099; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11091099 - 11 Sep 2025
Viewed by 508
Abstract
Carpel number has been recognized as a critical factor influencing fruit size, ultimately determining yield and economic efficiency. The WUSCHEL (WUS) protein is essential for maintaining stem cell homeostasis in the floral meristem. Its expression level directly influences the size of the floral [...] Read more.
Carpel number has been recognized as a critical factor influencing fruit size, ultimately determining yield and economic efficiency. The WUSCHEL (WUS) protein is essential for maintaining stem cell homeostasis in the floral meristem. Its expression level directly influences the size of the floral meristem (FM), thereby determining the number of floral organs in Arabidopsis thaliana, Solanum lycopersicum, and Cucumis sativus. While its role remained largely unexplored in grapevine (Vitis vinifera). This study cloned the VvWUS gene from the polycarpic grape cultivar ‘Jizaomi’. Transgenic tomato lines expressing VvWUS heterologously exhibited accelerated floral transition, enhanced carpel/floral organ initiation, and had significantly higher locule numbers relative to wild type. Furthermore, direct binding of VvWUS to the VvAGAMOUS (VvAG) promoter and activation of VvAG expression were demonstrated through yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) and dual-luciferase (LUC) assays. These findings elucidated the molecular function of VvWUS in grape carpel development, providing a foundational basis for molecular breeding strategies targeting large-berry grape varieties. Full article
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16 pages, 3404 KB  
Article
Loss of LsSOC1 Function Delays Bolting and Reprograms Transcriptional and Metabolic Responses in Lettuce
by Jin-Young Kim, Young-Hee Jang, Tae-Sung Kim, Yu-Jin Jung and Kwon-Kyoo Kang
DNA 2025, 5(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/dna5030040 - 19 Aug 2025
Viewed by 630
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Bolting in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is highly sensitive to elevated temperatures, leading to premature flowering and reduced crop quality and yield. Although SUPPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CONSTANS 1 (SOC1) is a well-known floral integrator in Arabidopsis, its [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Bolting in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is highly sensitive to elevated temperatures, leading to premature flowering and reduced crop quality and yield. Although SUPPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CONSTANS 1 (SOC1) is a well-known floral integrator in Arabidopsis, its role in heat-induced bolting in lettuce remains unclear. Methods: In this study, we generated CRISPR/Cas9-mediated LsSOC1 knockout (KO) lines and evaluated their phenotypes under high-temperature conditions. Results: LsSOC1-KO lines exhibited delayed bolting up to 18.6 days, and stem elongation was reduced by approximately 3.8 cm, which is equivalent to a 36.1% decrease compared to wild-type (WT) plants. Transcriptome analysis of leaf and bud tissues identified 32 up-regulated and 10 down-regulated genes common to leaf tissue (|log2FC| ≥ 1, adjusted p < 0.05). Among them, GA20-oxidase1 was significantly down-regulated in both tissues, which may have contributed to delayed floral transition and possibly to reduced stem elongation, although tissue-specific regulation of gibberellin metabolism warrants further investigation. In contrast, genes encoding heat shock proteins, ROS-detoxification enzymes, and flavonoid biosynthetic enzymes were up-regulated, suggesting a dual role of LsSOC1 in modulating thermotolerance and floral transition. qRT-PCR validated the sustained suppression of flowering-related genes in LsSOC1 KO plants under 37 °C heat stress. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that LsSOC1 is a key integrator of developmental and thermal cues, orchestrating both bolting and stress-responsive transcriptional programs. Importantly, delayed bolting may extend the harvest window and improve postharvest quality in lettuce, highlighting LsSOC1 as a promising genetic target for breeding heat-resilient leafy vegetables. Full article
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18 pages, 2013 KB  
Article
Enhancing Nutritional Value and Sensory Quality of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) Through Preharvest Co-Cultivation with Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
by Yue Zhao, Jikang Sui, Yuxuan Cui, Mingyong Zeng, Haohao Wu, Guangxin Feng and Xiangning Lu
Fermentation 2025, 11(8), 462; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11080462 - 11 Aug 2025
Viewed by 896
Abstract
Spirulina’s (Arthrospira platensis) use in food applications is limited by its dark color and sulfurous odor. This study aimed to develop a preharvest bioprocessing strategy using Saccharomyces cerevisiae co-cultivation to address these limitations. At a yeast/microalgae biomass ratio of 10:1000 with [...] Read more.
Spirulina’s (Arthrospira platensis) use in food applications is limited by its dark color and sulfurous odor. This study aimed to develop a preharvest bioprocessing strategy using Saccharomyces cerevisiae co-cultivation to address these limitations. At a yeast/microalgae biomass ratio of 10:1000 with 5 g/L of glucose supplementation, co-cultivation for 24 h induced a rapid color transition from dark blue–green to light green and imparted “floral–fruity” aromas. Major bioactive compounds, including β-carotene, linoleic acid, and γ-linolenic acid, increased significantly, while volatile sulfur compounds were eliminated. Chlorophyll a and carotenoid contents rose by over two fold, reflecting enhanced photosynthetic efficiency. Mechanistic analyses revealed that yeast-derived acetic acid upregulated genes involved in flavor precursor biosynthesis and promoted biomass accumulation. This strategy integrates sensory improvement with nutritional enhancement, providing a sustainable approach for developing spirulina-based functional foods. Full article
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18 pages, 3069 KB  
Article
Transcriptomic Profiling of Buds Unveils Insights into Floral Initiation in Tea-Oil Tree (Camellia oleifera ‘changlin53’)
by Hongyan Guo, Zongshun Zhou, Jian Zhou, Chao Yan, Wenbin Zhong, Chang Li, Ying Jiang, Yaqi Yuan, Linqing Cao, Wenting Pan, Jinfeng Wang, Jia Wang, Tieding He, Yikai Hua, Yisi Liu, Lixian Cao and Chuansong Chen
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2348; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152348 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 566
Abstract
Flowering is a key agronomic trait that directly influences the yield of the tea-oil tree (Camellia oleifera). Floral initiation, which precedes flower bud differentiation, represents a critical developmental stage affecting the flowering outcomes. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying floral initiation in [...] Read more.
Flowering is a key agronomic trait that directly influences the yield of the tea-oil tree (Camellia oleifera). Floral initiation, which precedes flower bud differentiation, represents a critical developmental stage affecting the flowering outcomes. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying floral initiation in C. oleifera remain poorly understood. In this study, buds from five key developmental stages of a 12-year-old C. oleifera cultivar ‘changlin53’ were collected as experimental samples. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to identify the stage of floral initiation. UPLC-MS/MS was used to analyze endogenous gibberellin (GA) concentrations, while transcriptomic analysis was performed to reveal the underlying transcriptional regulatory network. Six GA types were detected during floral initiation and petal development. GA4 was exclusively detected at the sprouting stage (BII), while GA3 was present in all samples but was significantly lower in BII and the flower bud primordium formation stage (BIII) than in the other samples. A total of 64 differentially expressed genes were concurrently enriched in flower development, reproductive shoot system development, and shoot system development. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified eight specific modules significantly associated with different developmental stages. The magenta module, containing Unigene0084708 (CoFT) and Unigene0037067 (CoLEAFY), emerged as a key regulatory module driving floral initiation. Additionally, GA20OX1 and GA2OX8 were identified as candidate genes involved in GA-mediated regulation of floral initiation. Based on morphological and transcriptomic analyses, we conclude that floral initiation of C. oleifera is a continuous regulatory process governed by multiple genes, with the FT-LFY module playing a central role in the transition from apical meristem to floral meristem. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural Science and Ornamental Plants)
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19 pages, 13626 KB  
Article
Genome-Wide Identification and Co-Expression Analysis of WRKY Genes Unveil Their Role in Regulating Anthocyanin Accumulation During Euscaphis japonica Fruit Maturation
by Bobin Liu, Qingying Wang, Dongmei He, Xiaqin Wang, Guiliang Xin, Xiaoxing Zou, Daizhen Zhang, Shuangquan Zou and Jiakai Liao
Biology 2025, 14(8), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080958 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 537
Abstract
Anthocyanins, crucial water-soluble pigments in plants, determine coloration in floral and fruit tissues, while fulfilling essential physiological roles in terms of plant growth, development, and stress adaptation. The biosynthesis of anthocyanins is transcriptionally regulated by WRKY factors, one of the largest plant-specific transcription [...] Read more.
Anthocyanins, crucial water-soluble pigments in plants, determine coloration in floral and fruit tissues, while fulfilling essential physiological roles in terms of plant growth, development, and stress adaptation. The biosynthesis of anthocyanins is transcriptionally regulated by WRKY factors, one of the largest plant-specific transcription factor families. Euscaphis japonica is an East Asian species, prized for its exceptionally persistent butterfly-shaped fruits that undergo pericarp dehiscence, overturning, and a color transition to scarlet red. This species represents an ideal system for studying anthocyanin regulation. However, the mechanisms by which WRKY transcription factors orchestrate anthocyanin accumulation during this process remain unknown. In this study, we identified 87 WRKY genes (EjaWRKYs) from the E. japonica genome. Phylogenetic analysis was used to classify these genes into three primary groups, with five subgroups, revealing conserved gene structures and motif compositions, supported by collinearity and comparative synteny analyses. Crucially, ten EjaWRKYs exhibited peak expression during the mature fruit stages, showing positive correlations with key anthocyanin biosynthesis genes. Functional validation through the use of transient transactivation assays in Nicotiana benthamiana confirmed that the five selected EjaWRKYs bind W-box elements and strongly activate reporter gene expression. Our results reveal EjaWRKYs’ regulation of anthocyanin accumulation in E. japonica fruit, provide the first comprehensive WRKY family characterization of this species, and establish a foundation for manipulating ornamental traits in horticultural breeding. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Biosynthesis and Degradation of Plant Anthocyanin)
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19 pages, 17948 KB  
Article
Temporal Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Core Pathways and Orphan Gene EARLY FLOWERING 1 Regulating Floral Transition in Chinese Cabbage
by Hong Lang, Yuting Zhang, Shouhe Zhao, Kexin Li, Xiaonan Li and Mingliang Jiang
Plants 2025, 14(14), 2236; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14142236 - 19 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 532
Abstract
The floral transition in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis) is governed by a complex interplay of gene expression and hormonal regulation. Temporal transcriptome profiling was conducted across three developmental stages: pre-bolting (PBS), bolting (BS), and flowering stages (FS), to investigate [...] Read more.
The floral transition in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis) is governed by a complex interplay of gene expression and hormonal regulation. Temporal transcriptome profiling was conducted across three developmental stages: pre-bolting (PBS), bolting (BS), and flowering stages (FS), to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. A total of 7092 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, exhibiting distinct expression trajectories during the transition. Moreover, functional enrichment analyses revealed strong associations with plant hormone signaling, MAPK pathways, and developmental regulation processes. Key flowering-related genes, such as BrFLM, BrAP2, BrFD, BrFT, and BrSOC1s displayed antagonistic expression patterns. Hormonal pathways involving auxin, ABA, ET, BR, GA, JA, CK, and SA showed stage-dependent modulation. Further, orphan genes (OGs), especially EARLY FLOWERING 1 (EF1), showed significant upregulation during the transition, which exhibited 1.84-fold and 1.93-fold increases at BS and FS compared to PBS, respectively (p < 0.05). Functional validation through EF1 overexpression (EF1OE) in Arabidopsis consistently promoted early flowering. The expression levels of AtFT and AtSOC1 were significantly upregulated in EF1OE lines compared to wild-type (WT) plants. The findings contribute to understanding the coordinated genetic and hormonal events driving floral development in Chinese cabbage, suggesting EF1 as a candidate for bolting resistance breeding. This work also expands the existing regulatory framework through the successful integration of OGs into the complex floral induction system of Brassica crops. Full article
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15 pages, 518 KB  
Review
Advances in Bract Coloration: Diversity, Pigment Synthesis, and Regulatory Mechanisms in Ornamental Plants
by Xiaoyang Li, Yang Liu, Zhiquan Cai and Yiwei Zhou
Plants 2025, 14(14), 2155; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14142155 - 13 Jul 2025
Viewed by 860
Abstract
Bract coloration in ornamental plants is a complex trait governed by diverse pigments (chlorophylls, anthocyanins, betalains, and carotenoids), their biosynthetic pathways, and regulatory networks. While previous research has primarily focused on floral pigmentation, studies on bract coloration—particularly in species where bracts serve as [...] Read more.
Bract coloration in ornamental plants is a complex trait governed by diverse pigments (chlorophylls, anthocyanins, betalains, and carotenoids), their biosynthetic pathways, and regulatory networks. While previous research has primarily focused on floral pigmentation, studies on bract coloration—particularly in species where bracts serve as the primary ornamental feature—have received less attention until recent advances. This review synthesizes current understanding of bract color diversity, pigment biochemistry, and molecular regulation in key species including Bougainvillea, Euphorbia pulcherrima, Anthurium andraeanum, Curcuma alismatifolia, and Zantedeschia hybrida. Anthocyanins predominantly contribute to red-to-purple hues, while betalains generate red, purple, or yellow coloration through differential accumulation of betacyanins and betaxanthins. Developmental color transitions are mediated by chlorophyll degradation and carotenoid dynamics. The spatiotemporal regulation of pigment accumulation involves coordinated interactions between key structural genes (CHS, DFR, ANS for anthocyanins; DODA, CYP76AD1 for betalains), transcription factors (MYB, bHLH, WRKY), and plant growth regulators (BAP, GA, MeJA). Despite these advances, significant knowledge gaps remain in genetic inheritance patterns, epigenetic regulation, cross-pigment pathway crosstalk, and environmental modulation. Future research directions should integrate multi-omics approaches, wild germplasm resources, and gene-editing technologies to develop novel breeding strategies for bract color improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology and Metabolism)
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14 pages, 3171 KB  
Article
Genome-Wide Identification and Functional Analysis of the PEBP Gene Family in Begonia semperflorens ‘Super Olympia’ Reveal Its Potential Role in Regulating Flowering
by Congcong Fu, Mengru Zhao, Huiting Xia, Puyu Ren, Weichao Liu, Qirui Wang and Kaiming Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6291; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136291 - 29 Jun 2025
Viewed by 565
Abstract
The phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein (PEBP) gene family, known for its pivotal role in controlling floral transition, regulates flowering time, and, thus, shapes the continuous-flowering trait in ornamental plants. In this study, we conducted the first genome-wide identification and bioinformatics analysis of the PEBP gene [...] Read more.
The phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein (PEBP) gene family, known for its pivotal role in controlling floral transition, regulates flowering time, and, thus, shapes the continuous-flowering trait in ornamental plants. In this study, we conducted the first genome-wide identification and bioinformatics analysis of the PEBP gene family in Begonia semperflorens ‘Super Olympia’, a variety that exhibits year-round flowering. Via phylogenetic analysis, a total of 10 BsPEBP genes were identified and categorized into four subfamilies: the FT-like (two members), TFL1-like (three members), PEBP-like (three members), and MFT-like (two members) subfamilies. Gene structure analysis revealed highly conserved motif compositions among family members, and protein tertiary structure prediction indicated the dominance of random coils in their structures. Promoter cis-acting element analysis revealed light-responsive, hormone-responsive (ABA, GA, and JA), and abiotic stress-responsive elements in the BsPEBP genes, suggesting their potential integration into multiple regulatory pathways. The tissue-specific expression profiles revealed that BsPEBP6 was significantly upregulated in floral organs, whereas TFL1-like subfamily members were predominantly expressed in vegetative tissues. These findings imply that the FT-like and TFL1-like genes antagonistically regulate the continuous-flowering trait of B. semperflorens ‘Super Olympia’ through their respective roles in promoting and repressing flowering. Our findings provide a preliminary theoretical foundation for elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which the PEBP gene family regulates flowering time in ornamental plants and offer valuable insights for developing breeding strategies aimed at flowering time modulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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16 pages, 1161 KB  
Article
Establishment of an Efficient System for Rhizome Proliferation and In Vitro Flowering Induction from Protocorm Explants in Cymbidium goeringii
by Yongqi Zhi, Chenhao Wang, Yi Yang, Ming Chen, Muthusamy Ramakrishnan, Bo Fu, Lili Wang, Qiang Wei and Sen Wang
Horticulturae 2025, 11(7), 738; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11070738 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 596
Abstract
Unlike other orchids in the Orchidaceae family, Cymbidium goeringii presents significant challenges for in vitro flowering. In this study, through the screening of different basal media, hormone combinations, and other conditions, we developed efficient rhizome regeneration (micropropagation) and in vitro flowering induction systems [...] Read more.
Unlike other orchids in the Orchidaceae family, Cymbidium goeringii presents significant challenges for in vitro flowering. In this study, through the screening of different basal media, hormone combinations, and other conditions, we developed efficient rhizome regeneration (micropropagation) and in vitro flowering induction systems from protocorm explants of C. goeringii hybrids. To obtain protocorm explants, seeds were pretreated with either NaOH or NaOCl. Our results indicated that NaOH pretreatment enhanced seed germination more effectively than NaOCl, and Knudson C medium proved more suitable for protocorm induction. The resulting protocorms were then used as primary explants for efficient rhizome micropropagation. An orthogonal design identified the optimal combination for rhizome proliferation: 9.0 mg/L 6-BA, 9.0 mg/L NAA, 3.0 mg/L IBA, and 0.1 g/L activated charcoal (Treatment 9), which achieved a proliferation rate of 35.17%. For rhizome differentiation, MS medium supplemented with 10 mg/L 6-BA, 0.1 mg/L NAA, and 0.1 mg/L AgNO3 (Treatment 6) achieved a 100% differentiation rate and produced 3.93 buds per explant. Building on this optimized micropropagation system, in vitro flowering was induced directly from rhizomes. The most effective medium was MS (1/3N, 3P) supplemented with 9.0 mg/L 6-BA, 0.1 mg/L NAA, and 0.1–0.3 mg/L TDZ (Treatment 6), resulting in a 36% flower bud induction rate and a 16% normal flower bud formation rate. Orthogonal analysis and ANOVA confirmed that 6-BA was the most significant factor influencing floral transition, with the low-nitrogen and high-phosphorus MS (1/3N, 3P) medium also being a key contributor. Consequently, our study has established an efficient rhizome micropropagation system that enables in vitro flowering induction in C. goeringii hybrids within just six months. This represents a substantial 60–80% reduction in the flowering time (from 6–7 years to 1–2 years), compared to the traditional 6–7-year cultivation period. Future work will focus on ex vitro acclimatization, detailed floral-trait validation, and hormone-regime refinement for fast-tracking breeding programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Application of Tissue Culture to Horticulture)
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32 pages, 2080 KB  
Review
Multiple Signals Can Be Integrated into Pathways of Blue-Light-Mediated Floral Transition: Possible Explanations on Diverse Flowering Responses to Blue Light Manipulation
by Yun Kong and Youbin Zheng
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1534; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071534 - 25 Jun 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1032
Abstract
Blue light (BL) plays a crucial role in regulating floral transition and can be precisely manipulated in controlled-environment agriculture (CEA). However, previous studies on BL-mediated flowering in CEA have produced conflicting results, likely due to species-specific responses and variations in experimental conditions (such [...] Read more.
Blue light (BL) plays a crucial role in regulating floral transition and can be precisely manipulated in controlled-environment agriculture (CEA). However, previous studies on BL-mediated flowering in CEA have produced conflicting results, likely due to species-specific responses and variations in experimental conditions (such as light spectrum and intensity) as summarized in our recent systematic review. This speculation still lacks a mechanistic explanation at the molecular level. By synthesizing recent advances in our understanding of the signaling mechanisms underlying floral transition, this review highlights how both internal signals (e.g., hormones, carbohydrates, and developmental stage) and external cues (e.g., light spectrum, temperature, nutrients, stress, and magnetic fields) are integrated into the flowering pathway mediated by BL. Key signal integration nodes have been identified, ranging from photoreceptors (e.g., cryptochromes) to downstream components such as transcription factors and central flowering regulator, FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT). This signal integration offers a potential mechanistic explanation for the previously inconsistent findings, which may arise from interspecies differences in photoreceptor composition and variation in the expression of downstream components influenced by hormonal crosstalk, environmental conditions, and developmental stage, depending on the specific context. This review provides novel molecular insights into how BL modulates floral transition through interactions with other signals. By systematically compiling and critically assessing recent research findings, we identify key research gaps and outline future directions, particularly the need for more studies in agriculturally important crops. Furthermore, this review proposes a conceptual framework for optimizing BL-based lighting strategies and exploring underexamined interaction factors in the regulation of flowering. Full article
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16 pages, 2997 KB  
Article
Overexpression of SEPALLATA3-like Gene SnMADS37 Generates Green Petal-Tip Flowers in Solanum nigrum
by Siming Yuan, Chun-Lan Piao, Xinyu Zhang and Min-Long Cui
Plants 2025, 14(13), 1891; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14131891 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 564
Abstract
The SEPALLATA3 (SEP3)-like MADS-box genes play crucial roles in determining petal identity and development in the petunia and tomato of Solanaceae. Solanum nigrum is a self-pollinating plant in the Solanaceae family, and produces white flowers. However, the mechanisms controlling the transition [...] Read more.
The SEPALLATA3 (SEP3)-like MADS-box genes play crucial roles in determining petal identity and development in the petunia and tomato of Solanaceae. Solanum nigrum is a self-pollinating plant in the Solanaceae family, and produces white flowers. However, the mechanisms controlling the transition from green to white petals during flower development remain poorly understood. In this study, we isolated a flower-specific SEP3-like gene, SnMADS37, from S. nigrum, and investigated its potential role in chlorophyll metabolism during petal development. Our results show that quantitative RT-PCR analysis demonstrates that SnMADS37 is exclusively expressed in petals and stamens during early floral bud development. Overexpression of SnMADS37 clearly enhanced the number of petals, promoting the formation of additional petal-like tissues in stamens and extra organs in some fruits. Moreover, fully opened transformed petals exhibited notable chlorophyll accumulation at their tips and veins, whereas silencing of Snmads37 clearly inhibited petal expansion and reduced green pigmentation in early flower buds. Additionally, the transformed green petals exhibited distinct conical epidermal cells in the green regions, similar to wild type (WT) petals. Our results demonstrate that SnMADS37 plays a critical role in regulating petal identity, expansion, and chlorophyll metabolism during petal development. These findings provide new insights into the functional diversification of SEP3-like MADS-box genes in angiosperms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms of Flower Development and Plant Reproduction)
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20 pages, 2681 KB  
Article
Molecular Characterization of CnHd3a and Spatial Expression of Its Alternative Splicing Forms Associated with Flowering Transition and Flower Development in Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera L.)
by Pariya Maneeprasert, Siriwan Thaisakun, Theerachai Thanananta, Narumol Thanananta, Noppamart Lokkamlue and Chareerat Mongkolsiriwatana
Genes 2025, 16(6), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16060718 - 18 Jun 2025
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Abstract
Background: The flowering transition is a critical process determining the onset of reproductive development and fruit production. The molecular mechanisms underlying this process in coconuts are poorly understood; however, recent studies have identified CnHd3a as a potential regulator of the floral transition in [...] Read more.
Background: The flowering transition is a critical process determining the onset of reproductive development and fruit production. The molecular mechanisms underlying this process in coconuts are poorly understood; however, recent studies have identified CnHd3a as a potential regulator of the floral transition in coconuts. Methods: In this study, we characterized the molecular structure of CnHd3a and analyzed its alternative splicing forms in tall and dwarf varieties of coconut palms during the flowering transition. We used qRT-PCR to measure the expression levels of CnHd3a at different developmental stages. Results: CnHd3a was expressed in leaves and the shoot apical meristem (SAM) during the flowering transition in both coconut varieties and flower tissues during flower development. Interestingly, the expression levels of complex isoforms of CnHd3a were higher in the leaves of dwarf coconuts than in those of tall coconuts, suggesting their involvement in shortening the vegetative growth phase of dwarf coconuts. The gene structure of CnHd3a was found to be conserved across different plant species, indicating the evolutionary conservation of the floral transition process. Conclusions: Our findings provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the floral transition and flower development processes in coconut palm. The tissue-specific expression patterns of CnHd3a isoforms show their potential roles in growth and development. Further investigations focusing on the functional characterization of CnHd3a isoforms will have practical implications for coconut breeding and cultivation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics and Genomics)
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