Identification of Key Genes in the Biosynthetic Pathways of Catechin and Epicatechin in Spatholobus suberectus Based on WGCNA

Objective As potential quality markers (Q-Markers) of Spatholobus suberectus,catechin and epicatechin play crucial roles in its medicinal properties.This study aimed to identify key candidate genes and regulatory networks involved in their biosynthesis,providing genetic targets for elucidating the biosynthetic pathway and regulatory mechanisms of proanthocyanidins in S.suberectus.Methods Young stems,young leaves,mature leaves,xylem,and phloem of S.suberectus were subjected to transcriptome sequencing.The contents of catechin,epicatechin,and other flavonoids in different tissues were analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS).Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was employed to identify key modules and genes closely associated with proanthocyanidin biosynthesis.Additionally,eight candidate genes were selected for qRT-PCR validation to confirm the reliability of the transcriptome data.