Identification and characterization of bHLH32 and bHLH50 in Lotus japonicus

Hydroponic culture induce betulinic acid production in Lotus japonicus roots. To identify key transcription factors regulating betulinic acid biosynthesis, we performed transcriptome profiling of soil-grown and hydroponically-cultured roots (So and Hy) and secondary aerenchyma and meristem (SA and SM) tissue on the surface of hypocotyl of hydroponically-cultured plant. We also analyzed GFP-, bHLH32- and bHLH50-overexpressing hairy roots for functional characterization of them.