Anthocyanin content and expression of synthesis-related genes in Lonicera caerulea L.

ObjectiveAnthocyanin content and expression of regulatory genes in Lonicera caerulea L. were studied to provide reference for utilization of the germplasm and synthesis regulation of anthocyanin. MethodAnthocyanin composi-tions and contents of different varieties(Berel,HSY-4 and Japan-5) were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatogra-phy. Quantitative real-time PCR(qRT-PCR) technology was used to determine genes related to anthocyanin synthesis at di-fferent maturing periods of the three varieties and expression of transcription factors.ResultEight anthocyanins were de-tected in 525 nm wavelength. Cyanidin 3-glucoside was identified as the main anthocyanin and accounting for 76.61%-86.67% of total anthocyanin content. Berel fruit had the highest anthocyanin content(500.14 mg/100 gFW) while Japan-5 fruit contained the lowest anthocyanin content(162.79 mg/100 gFW). Expression of anthocyanin synthesis genes were the highest at half-veraison period, which was in line with accumulation of anthocyanin. Expressions of genes PAL,ANS and bHLH went through an up-down trend as anthocyanin synthesis accumulation increased. ConclusionL. caerulea L. con-tains eight anthocyanins, and the species of anthocyanins with cyanidin 3-glucoside as aglycone are the largest. Synthesis-re-lated genes PAL,ANS and bHLH play a regulatory effect in anthocyanin synthesis. Expressions of synthesis-related genes of Berel,HSY-4 and Japan-5 are similar model, but vary between different varieties.