An approach to determining anthocyanin synthesis enzyme gene expression in an evolutionary context: an example from Erica plukenetii.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Floral colour in angiosperms can be controlled by variations in the expression of the genes of the anthocyanin pathway. Floral colour shifts influence pollinator specificity. Multiple shifts in floral colour occurred in the diversification of the genus Erica (Ericaceae), from plesiomorphic pink to, for example, red or white flowers. Variation in anthocyanin gene expression and its effects on floral colour in the red-, pink- and white-flowered Erica plukenetii species complex was investigated.

Methods

Next generation sequencing, reverse transcriptase PCR and real-time reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR were used to quantify anthocyanin gene expression.

Key results

Non-homologous mutations causing loss of expression of single genes were found, in

SUBMITTER: Le Maitre NC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6676384 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature