Functional characterization of <i>EjAP1-like1</i> reveals its role in floral development and flowering time regulation in loquat (<i>Eriobotrya japonica</i>).

ABSTRACT: APETALA1 (AP1), a member of the MADS-box transcription factor family, plays a pivotal role in floral meristem identity and organ formation. In this study, we identified and cloned a novel AP1 homolog gene, EjAP1-like1, from loquat. The gene encodes a 262-amino acid protein with a typical MADS-box domain and shares close phylogenetic relationships with known flowering-related AP1 homologs, suggesting a conserved role in flowering regulation. Promoter analysis revealed multiple cis-acting elements responsive to light, GA, MeJA, and drought. Expression profiling showed that EjAP1-like1 is highly expressed in the shoot apical meristem during floral induction, and its expression is modulated by GA₃ treatment and short-day photoperiod. Subcellular localization confirmed

SUBMITTER: Wang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12741147 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature