Biotech Updates

Expression of RsMYB1 in Chrysanthemum Regulates Anthocyanin Biosynthetic Genes

November 11, 2015

Several MYB genes belonging to R2R3 MYB transcription factors have been used in several plant species to enhance anthocyanin production. A research study led by Aung Htay Naing from the Kyungpook National University in South Korea, focused on the effect of ectopic expression of an RsMYB1 from radish (Raphanus sativa) on chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora).

Results indicate that RsMYB1 regulated the expression of three key biosynthetic genes, CmF3H, CmDFR, and CmANS, which are responsible for anthocyanin production in transgenic chrysanthemum. In all transgenic plants, higher expression levels of the key biosynthetic genes were observed in flowers than in leaves.

The presence of RsMYB1 in chrysanthemum did not affect any morphological characteristics as no anthocyanin accumulation was visually observed in the leaves and floral tissue of any of the transgenic lines.

For more information on the said study, read the article in the Electronic Journal of Biotechnology.