The PbrMADS1-PbrMYB169 complex has uniquely emerged to regulate lignification of stone cells in pear.

ABSTRACT: Lignified stone cells are a unique feature of pear fruit, significantly affecting fruit texture. Even though some research efforts have already been made, the stone cell formation mechanism is complex, with many aspects yet to be elucidated. Here, through a genome-wide association analysis of stone cell traits, we identified PbrMADS1, a member of the SEPALLATA3 (SEP3) subfamily, as a candidate gene specifically expressed in stone cells during early fruit development. Functional studies confirmed that PbrMADS1 promotes stone cell formation; however, it does not directly activate lignin-related genes. Instead, PbrMADS1 interacts with PbrMYB169, enhancing PbrMYB169's binding to AC elements and amplifying downstream gene activation. Notably, homologous MADS1 and MYB169 proteins from closely re

SUBMITTER: Xue Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12782895 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature