A study has uncovered the complex hormonal and genetic interactions that dictate the seasonal flowering cycle of Cymbidium sinense, the Chinese orchid. This research sheds light on the enigmatic mechanisms of floral bud dormancy and its subsequent activation, offering new perspectives on the control of flowering times in plants.
Flower development in plants is a complex process influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Hormones like gibberellin (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) play pivotal roles in regulating this process. In many orchids, including the Chinese Cymbidium, flower bud dormancy is essential for surviving adverse conditions and ensuring timely blooming. Despite its significance, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying floral bud initiation and dormancy remain poorly understood. Based on these challenges, it is crucial to conduct in-depth studies on the hormonal regulation of flower development.
Researchers from the Guangdong Key Laboratory of Ornamental Plant Germplasm Innovation and Utilization have made significant strides in this area. Published (DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhae073) in the prestigious journal Horticulture Research, the study integrates proteomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic profiling to elucidate the regulatory networks of Cymbidium sinense's floral development. The research highlights how GA and ABA are central to the processes of floral bud dormancy and activation, providing a detailed view of the genetic and hormonal interactions at play.
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