Plant Gene and Trait 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 97-107 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 97 Feature Review Open Access Functional Study of Key Genes inEucalyptusAsexual Reproduction Zhongmei Hong, Wenzhong Huang CRO Service Station, Sanya Tihitar SciTech Breeding Service Inc., Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China Corresponding email: wenzhong.huang@hitar.org Plant Gene and Trait, 2024, Vol.15, No.2 doi: 10.5376/pgt.2024.15.0011 Received: 17 Mar., 2024 Accepted: 21 Apr., 2024 Published: 30 Apr., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Hong and Huang, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Hong Z.M., and Huang W.Z., 2024, Functional study of key genes in Eucalyptus asexual reproduction, Plant Gene and Trait, 15(2): 97-107 (doi: 10.5376/pgt.2024.15.0011) Abstract Transcriptome analysis revealed significant differences in gene expression between differentiated and dedifferentiated tissues in Eucalyptus species with varying embryogenetic potentials. Specifically, 9 229 and 8 989 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in E. camaldulensis and E. grandis x urophylla, respectively. Key genes involved in somatic embryogenesis, such as somatic embryogenesis receptor kinase, ethylene, auxin, and transcription factors, were differentially regulated. Functional studies using Eucalyptus hairy roots demonstrated the utility of these genes in secondary cell wall biosynthesis and wood formation. Overexpression of FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) induced early flowering, facilitating rapid breeding cycles. The identified genes and their functional roles offer valuable insights for improving vegetative propagation and breeding programs. The findings also highlight the potential of using genetic and transcriptomic tools to accelerate the development of Eucalyptus species with desirable traits. This study aimed to identify and functionally characterize key genes involved in the asexual reproduction of Eucalyptus, focusing on somatic embryogenesis and dedifferentiation processes and enhance the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying these processes to improve vegetative propagation techniques for commercial and breeding purposes. Keywords Eucalyptus; Asexual reproduction; Somatic embryogenesis; Gene expression; Vegetative propagation 1 Introduction Eucalyptus, a genus within the Myrtaceae family, holds significant economic and ecological importance globally (Silva-Pando and Pino-Pérez, 2016). It is the most widely planted hardwood, valued for its rapid growth, adaptability, and utility in producing timber, pulp, and bioenergy (Xiao et al., 2020; Amanpreet and Rajesh, 2021). The genus is also notable for its high foliar concentrations of secondary metabolites, which play crucial roles in mediating interactions with herbivores and influencing ecosystem functions (Külheim et al., 2011; Brezáni and Karel, 2013; Nasr et al., 2019). The adaptability and economic value of Eucalyptus make it a pivotal genus in both forestry and agricultural sectors. Asexual reproduction, particularly through somatic embryogenesis (SE), is a critical method for the vegetative propagation of Eucalyptus. SE allows for the large-scale production of genetically uniform plants, which is essential for commercial forestry operations (Xiao et al., 2020). The process involves the dedifferentiation of plant cells to a meristematic state, followed by their redifferentiation into somatic embryos. This method is advantageous for maintaining desirable traits and enhancing the efficiency of breeding programs. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying SE in Eucalyptus are not fully understood, necessitating further research to elucidate the key genes involved in this process (Pinto et al., 2013; Xiao et al., 2020). Besides, Previous studies have highlighted the importance of various transcription factors, protein domains, and secondary metabolites in the growth and reproductive diversification of Eucalyptus (Külheim et al., 2011; Soler et al., 2015; Kersting et al., 2015). The aim of this study is to investigate key genes involved in eucalyptus asexual reproduction, with a focus on somatic embryogenesis, and contribute to improved breeding programs and sustainable management of eucalyptus plantations by providing a detailed understanding of the genetic and molecular basis of eucalyptus asexual reproduction. This study aims to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that play a key role in dedifferentiation and redifferentiation. This study also provides a scientific basis for the systematic study of the genetic mechanism of eucalyptus asexual reproduction, and emphasizes its importance in forestry and agriculture.
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