Comparative transcriptomics of two petal variants reveals key functional genes underlying petal shape development in lotus (<i>Nelumbo</i>).

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The lotus (Nelumbo Adans.) is a versatile plant that integrates ornamental beauty, culinary applications, medicinal benefits, ecological significance, and cultural symbolism. However, its ornamental value is somewhat restricted by the relatively limited diversity in petal shapes. Consequently, it is essential to explore the genes regulating petal shape, in order to lay a primary foundation for molecular-assisted breeding of lotus cultivars with novel petal shapes.

Methods

This study focused on two variants with distinct petal shapes: the broad petals of N. lutea M512 and the narrow petals of N. nucifera 'Chenshan Feiyan' (CSFY). Petal shape differences, including length, width, length-to-width ratio, and epidermal cell density, were compared

SUBMITTER: He J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12279870 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature