Comparative transcriptome analysis provides insight into the molecular mechanisms of anther dehiscence in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)

Highlights

• A comparative transcriptome analysis of eggplant anther was conducted between the natural male-fertile line (F142) and two male-sterile lines (S12 and S13).

• 3446 DEGs were obtained, and 1682 DEGs were found between F142 and S12 + S13.

• These DEGs were mainly involved in “metabolic process”, “catalytic activity”, “biosynthesis of amino acids”, and “carbon metabolism”.

• Some key genes related to plant hormone signal transduction participate in the regulation of anther dehiscence in eggplant.

Abstract

Anther dehiscence releases pollen and therefore is a key event in plant sexual reproduction. Although anther dehiscence has been intensively studied in some plants, such as Arabidopsis thaliana and rice (Oryza sativa), the molecular mechanism of anther dehiscence in eggplant (Solanum melongena) is largely unknown. To provide insight into this mechanism, we used RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) to analyze the transcriptomic profiles of one natural male-fertile line (F142) and two male-sterile lines (S12 and S13). We assembled 88,414 unigenes and identified 3446 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). GO and KEGG analysis indicated that these DEGs were mainly involved in “metabolic process”, “catalytic activity”, “biosynthesis of amino acids”, and “carbon metabolism”. The present study provides comprehensive transcriptomic profiles of eggplants that do and do not undergo anther dehiscence, and identifies a number of genes and pathways associated with anther dehiscence. The information deepens our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of anther dehiscence in eggplant.