Transcriptomic and Structural Insights into Leaf Variegation Development in <i>Ilex</i> × 'Solar Flare'.

ABSTRACT: The mechanisms underlying leaf variegation in the ornamental Ilex × 'Solar Flare' remain poorly understood. To investigate this phenomenon, we conducted a comprehensive characterization of its variegated leaves. Compared to green sectors, yellow sectors exhibited severe chloroplast structural abnormalities, including swollen chloroplasts, damaged thylakoid membranes, and reduced chloroplast numbers. These yellow sectors also showed significantly lower chlorophyll and carotenoid levels, along with a depletion of key chlorophyll precursors-protoporphyrin IX (Proto IX), magnesium protoporphyrin IX (Mg-Proto IX), and protochlorophyllide (Pchlide). Photosynthetic efficiency was significantly impaired. Comparative transcriptome analysis identified 3510 differentially expressed genes (DEGs

SUBMITTER: Zou Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12071917 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature