A chromosome-level genome of Astilbe chinensis unveils the evolution of a terpene biosynthetic gene cluster.

ABSTRACT: Astilbe chinensis, a perennial ornamental plant in the Saxifragaceae family, is recognized for its medicinal properties due to its diverse secondary metabolites. Here, we generate a chromosome-level genome assembly of A. chinensis. Our analysis provides compelling evidence that A. chinensis experienced a whole-genome triplication event, which preceded the diversification of the Saxifragaceae family. Furthermore, we identify a biosynthetic gene cluster that includes nine terpene synthase (TPS) genes. Among these, the gene AcTPS2 encodes a eudesma-5,7-diene synthase, and the product is confirmed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. A synteny analysis of this gene cluster across various representative plant species reveals variations in the number, sequence, and function of TPS gene

SUBMITTER: Chen F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12602695 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature