Comparative Transcriptome Analysis in Apple (Malus x domestica Borkh.) Reveals Molecular Insights into Fruit Trait Variation in Two diffrent Apple Cultivars

Understanding the genetic basis underlying fruit traits in apple cultivars is crucial for improving fruit quality and productivity. This study presents a comparative transcriptome analysis between two distinct apple cultivars (Jeromine and Redlum Gala), aiming to elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing differences in fruit traits. RNA sequencing was performed on fruit samples collected at harvesting stage from both cultivars to analyze the gene expression profiles. The transcriptomic comparison identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with key fruit traits such as size, color, flavor, and texture. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of genes involved in pathways related to fruit development, metabolism, and signaling. Notably, several transcription factors and regulatory genes linked to fruit ripening and quality attributes were differentially expressed between the cultivars. Furthermore, the comparative analysis highlighted specific metabolic pathways, including those related to sugar metabolism, organic acid biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and hormone signaling pathways, contributing to variances in fruit traits. The differential expression of genes associated with ethylene, auxin, and abscisic acid signaling pathways suggested their roles in modulating fruit development and ripening disparities between the two cultivars. Moreover, the identification of candidate genes and regulatory networks associated with fruit traits provides valuable insights into the genetic architecture underlying these traits. These findings not only deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing fruit development and quality but also offer potential targets for future breeding strategies aimed at enhancing desirable fruit traits in apple cultivars. In conclusion, this comparative transcriptome analysis unravels the intricate regulatory networks and candidate genes associated with variances in fruit traits between two apple cultivars. The comprehensive insights gained from this study pave the way for targeted genetic improvements and facilitate the development of superior apple cultivars with enhanced fruit quality attributes.

解析苹果栽培品种果实性状背后的遗传基础，对于提升果实品质与生产效率至关重要。本研究针对两个不同的苹果栽培品种（Jeromine与Redlum Gala）开展比较转录组分析，旨在阐明调控果实性状差异的分子机制。本研究对两个品种收获期采集的果实样本进行RNA测序（RNA sequencing），以分析基因表达谱。转录组比较分析鉴定出与果实大小、色泽、风味及质地等关键性状相关的差异表达基因（differentially expressed genes, DEGs）。基因本体论（Gene ontology, GO）富集分析显示，参与果实发育、代谢及信号通路的基因显著富集。值得注意的是，多个与果实成熟及品质性状相关的转录因子与调控基因在两个品种间呈现差异表达。此外，本比较分析还揭示了与果实性状差异相关的特定代谢通路，包括糖代谢、有机酸生物合成、苯丙烷类生物合成以及激素信号通路等。与乙烯、生长素及脱落酸信号通路相关的基因差异表达，表明这些通路在调控两个品种的果实发育与成熟差异中发挥作用。此外，本研究鉴定出与果实性状相关的候选基因及调控网络，为解析这些性状背后的遗传结构提供了宝贵见解。上述研究结果不仅加深了我们对调控果实发育与品质的分子机制的理解，同时也为未来以改良苹果栽培品种优良果实性状为目标的育种策略提供了潜在靶点。综上，本比较转录组分析阐明了两个苹果品种间果实性状差异相关的复杂调控网络与候选基因。本研究获得的全面见解，为定向遗传改良以及培育兼具优良果实品质性状的优质苹果栽培品种奠定了基础。