Transcriptional dynamics in source-sink tissues identifies molecular factors regulating the corm development process in saffron (Crocus sativus L.)

Saffron is one of the most expensive spices obtained from the stigma of Crocus sativus L. Saffron being sterile, does not produce seeds, thus corms are the only source for propagation, but the molecular regulators controlling corm formation are still unknown. Therefore, in this study, RNA sequencing was carried out in saffron leaves and newly developing corms (apical buds in November) during vegetative growth to identify molecular regulators involved in the corm development process.