RNA-Seq Analysis of Prickled and Prickle-Free Epidermis Provides Insight into the Genetics of Prickle Development in Red Raspberry (Rubus ideaus L.)

• DOI: 10.3390/agronomy10121904
• Publication Date: 2020-12-02T12:49:54Z
• Authors: Archana Khadgi; Courtney A. Weber
• Keywords: Blowing a raspberry; Rubus; MYB

Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) is a globally commercialized specialty crop with growing demand worldwide. The presence of prickles on the stems, petioles and undersides leaves complicates both field management harvesting raspberries. An RNA sequencing analysis was used to identify differentially expressed genes in epidermal tissue prickled “Caroline” prickle-free “Joan J.” their segregating progeny. Expression patterns (DEGs) plants revealed downregulation some vital development-related transcription factors (TFs), including MIXTA-like R2R3-MYB family member; MADS-box; APETALA2/ETHYLENE RESPONSIVE FACTOR (AP2/ERF) NAM, ATAF1/2 CUC2 (NAC) epidermis tissue. these TFs confirmed by qRT-PCR analysis, indicating key regulatory role prickle development. This study adds understanding development mechanisms red raspberries needed for utilizing genetic engineering strategies developing cultivars and, possibly, other Rubus species, such as blackberry sp.) black (R. occidentalis L.).