Reconfiguration of DNA methylation at growth resumption after winter dormancy in kiwifruit

This study examines how DNA methylation regulates the transition from winter dormancy to spring growth in kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.), a key phase determining flowering and fruit production. RNA sequencing and whole-genome bisulfite sequencing were performed on buds collected during winter dormancy (June) and spring growth (August) periods in New Zealand. The research revealed that changes in methylation were associated with altered expression of genes involved in growth and flowering. Surprisingly, hypomethylation in the CHH context during the transition from winter dormancy to spring resumptions was accompanied by down-regulation of transposable element expression, highlighting the key role for epigenetic reprogramming in coordinating growth control and genome integrity.