Improved Genome Mapping of Chrysanthemums Shows Diverse Terpene-Producing Genes

Greg Howard
13th June, 2024

Improved Genome Mapping of Chrysanthemums Shows Diverse Terpene-Producing Genes

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • The study, conducted at Wuhan No.1 Hospital, analyzed the terpene composition in five tissues of Chrysanthemum nankingense
  • Researchers identified 39 different volatile terpenes, including monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, with tissue-specific profiles
  • The study used advanced genomic techniques to identify and analyze 140 terpene synthase (TPS) genes, revealing their diverse functions in terpene biosynthesis
Terpenes are vital components responsible for the aromatic properties of plants. These compounds are synthesized by enzymes known as terpene synthases (TPSs). A recent study conducted by Wuhan No.1 Hospital has made significant strides in understanding the terpene composition and the underlying genetic mechanisms in Chrysanthemum nankingense[1]. This research is crucial as it provides deeper insights into the biochemical pathways that contribute to the plant's aroma, which has implications for both horticulture and medicinal applications. The study aimed to characterize the volatile terpenes present in five different tissues of Chrysanthemum nankingense. Additionally, the researchers performed a genome-wide identification and expression analysis of TPS genes using an advanced chromosome-scale genome assembly and tissue-specific transcriptomes. They also explored the biochemical functions of three representative TPSs. To provide context, the Asteraceae family, to which Chrysanthemum nankingense belongs, is known for its diverse chemical composition, including terpenes, which have various pharmacological properties such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities[2]. The study's findings build upon this knowledge by detailing the specific terpenes and their biosynthetic pathways in Chrysanthemum nankingense. The researchers utilized RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology to analyze the transcriptomes of different tissues, which allowed them to identify the TPS genes expressed in each tissue. This method is highly effective in capturing the complexity of gene expression and has been previously used to study the transcriptomic response to low temperatures in Chrysanthemum nankingense[3]. The RNA-Seq data revealed a comprehensive list of TPS genes and their expression patterns, providing a foundational understanding of how terpene biosynthesis is regulated in different parts of the plant. The study also involved functional characterization of three representative TPS enzymes. By expressing these enzymes in vitro and analyzing the resulting terpene products, the researchers were able to determine the specific biochemical reactions catalyzed by each TPS. This approach not only confirmed the predicted functions of the TPS genes but also highlighted the diversity of terpenes produced by Chrysanthemum nankingense. One significant aspect of this study is its use of an improved chromosome-scale genome assembly, which offers a more accurate and detailed genetic map compared to previous assemblies. This advancement allowed for a more precise identification of TPS genes and their regulatory elements. Whole genome duplication, a process that can significantly alter the genetic and physiological traits of plants, has been shown to affect gene expression and metabolic pathways in Chrysanthemum nankingense[4]. The current study's detailed genome assembly helps to elucidate the impact of such genetic changes on terpene biosynthesis. In summary, the study conducted by Wuhan No.1 Hospital provides a comprehensive analysis of the terpene composition and TPS gene expression in Chrysanthemum nankingense. By leveraging advanced genomic and transcriptomic techniques, the researchers have significantly advanced our understanding of the biochemical pathways involved in terpene biosynthesis. This research not only enhances our knowledge of plant aroma but also has potential applications in improving the medicinal and horticultural value of Chrysanthemum nankingense.

GeneticsBiochemPlant Science

References

Main Study

1) An improved genome assembly of Chrysanthemum nankingense reveals expansion and functional diversification of terpene synthase gene family

Published 12th June, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-024-10498-6

Related Studies

2) The Plants of the Asteraceae Family as Agents in the Protection of Human Health.

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22063009

3) A transcriptomic analysis of Chrysanthemum nankingense provides insights into the basis of low temperature tolerance.

https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2164-15-844

4) Whole genome duplication enhances the photosynthetic capacity of Chrysanthemum nankingense.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s00438-017-1344-y


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