Genome-wide lncRNAs identification and meta-analysis for cold-responsive genes at the booting stage in rice (Oryza sativa L)

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are essential regulators of a broad range of biological processes in plants. Spectacular progress in next-generation sequencing technologies has enabled genome-wide identification of lncRNAs in multiple plant species. In this study, genome-wide lncRNA sequencing technology was used to identify cold-responsive lncRNAs at the booting stage in rice by comparison of a tolerant variety, Kongyu131 (KY131), and a sensitive variety, Dongnong422 (DN422). GO and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed, focusing on the cis- and trans- target genes of differential lncRNAs. To identify cold-responsive genes, a meta-analysis was used to integrate cold-tolerant QTLs at the booting stage. In total, 13 cold-responsive target genes were obtained by KEGG enrichment analysis combined with meta-analysis, as confirmed by qRT-PCR. Finally, three of these genes were identified in response to cold stress. These results sought to provide new insight into cold-resistance research for rice. A total of 12 sample data from two treatment groups and two control groups