RNA-seq of Linum usitatissimum anther

Nevertheless, a comprehensive and stage-resolved understanding of the transcriptomic landscape during flax anther development remains elusive. While prior studies have identified individual genes or loci associated with sterility, a global perspective on the gene expression dynamics and regulatory networks disrupted in male-sterile lines is still lacking. Such knowledge is essential for pinpointing the precise molecular lesions responsible for pollen abortion and for devising targeted crop improvement strategies. Therefore, this study was designed to conduct a comparative transcriptomic analysis of anthers from male-sterile flax lines and their fertile counterpart at key developmental stages. By comparing their gene expression profiles, we aim to identify DEGs and key biological pathways associated with male sterility in flax. The findings from this research will not only deepen our fundamental understanding of anther development in flax but also provide a valuable resource of candidate genes for developing reliable male sterility systems, ultimately contributing to the advancement of hybrid flax breeding.