Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Revealed a Comprehensive Understanding of the Biochemical and Genetic Mechanisms Underlying the Color Variations in Chrysanthemums

Abstract

Flower color is an important characteristic of ornamental plants and is determined by various chemical components, including anthocyanin. In the present study, combined metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis was used to explore color variations in the chrysanthemums of three cultivars, of which the color of JIN is yellow, FEN is pink, and ZSH is red. A total of 29 different metabolites, including nine anthocyanins, were identified in common in the three cultivars. Compared with the light-colored cultivars, all of the nine anthocyanin contents were found to be up-regulated in the dark-colored ones. The different contents of pelargonidin, cyanidin, and their derivates were found to be the main reason for color variations. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the color difference was closely related to anthocyanin biosynthesis. The expression level of anthocyanin structural genes, including DFR, ANS, 3GT, 3MaT1, and 3MaT2, was in accordance with the flower color depth. This finding suggests that anthocyanins may be a key factor in color variations among the studied cultivars. On this basis, two special metabolites were selected as biomarkers to assist in chrysanthemum breeding for color selection.

Pharmacological Effects of Volatile Oil from Chrysanthemum and Its Associated Mechanisms: A Review

“…Pharmacological effects of VO can be further enhanced by (1) achieving targeted drug delivery and controlled drug release to enhance bioavailability and efficiency, (2) preventing hydrolysis and oxidation to improve the chemical stability, and (3) reducing toxicity and volatility [128] . However, studies on the NDS of Chrysanthemum VO are still in the preliminary exploratory stage, particularly for nanodelivery systems and clinical availability may take some time.…”

“…Chrysanthemums, characterized by its unique flower color and structure, belong to the Compositae family and are annual or perennial herbs with an over 3,000year history of cultivation [1,2] . From the perspective of varieties, Chrysanthemum species worldwide are mainly divided into Chinese, Japanese, and European groups.…”

Nutrient Solution Flowing Environment Affects Metabolite Synthesis Inducing Root Thigmomorphogenesis of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in Hydroponics

“…The OPLS-DA was used to conduct log2 conversions on the raw data and then for performing centralized processing. The MetaboAnalystR package OPLSR's anal functions in R software were then used for analysis [63]. Score maps were drawn for each group, and VIP (variable importance in projection) values were obtained to preliminary screen for intergroup differential metabolites (VIP > 1).…”