Comparative transcriptomic dynamics between different phenological stages uncover PpFT-PpSOC1-PpCAL/AP1-floral organ identity genes and hormonal networks underlying flowering time regulation in Prunus persica

초록

Global warming has advanced the flowering time of temperate fruit trees, increasing the risk of spring frost damage and threatening the stability of fruit production worldwide. Understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating flowering time and developing a strategy to delay flowering have therefore become important for stabilizing fruit production under increasingly erratic climate conditions. In the current study, transcriptomic profiling of normal flowering (NF) and sodium alginate-treated shoots exhibiting delayed flowering (DF) was performed across four phenological stages to identify the putative signaling network mechanisms underlying flowering in peach. Comparative expression analysis revealed that PpFT-PpSOC1-PpCAL/AP1-floral organ identity genes function as a core regulatory framework that coordinates flowering. Particularly, the PpAP2 and PpFLC pathways act as repressors of flowering induction signals and remain active until 11 DAT in DF, contributing to flowering delay. Notably, the 5th stage emerged as a critical regulatory checkpoint in flowering timing regulation between NF and DF. Furthermore, molecular cross-talk among cytokinin, gibberellin, and ethylene signaling and PpSOC1-PpCAL/AP1 module may contribute to the regulation of flowering time. Protein-protein interaction indicated that three hormone-responsive and floral organ identity players are interconnected through a network centered on the PpFT-PpSOC1 module. Comparative mapping further demonstrated synteny and evolutionary conservation of flowering time-related genes within the Prunus genus. Collectively, this study provides comprehensive insights into the transcriptional networks governing flowering time regulation in P. persica and establishes a molecular framework essential for understanding how perennial fruit trees adjust their flowering-timing in response to increasingly erratic climate conditions.

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