Effects of low temperature on browning and NAC gene expression of fresh cut lotus root

NAC genes have been characterized in numerous plants, in which they are involved in responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, such as heat and cold stresses.
Low temperature is one of the most effective storage methods for delaying browning of fresh-cut lotus root (Nelumbo nucifera). In model plants, NAC genes have been identified as being responsive to temperature stress.
Whereas, roles of NACs in lotus root browning under low temperature has not been studied.
In this research, low temperature storage (4°C) effectively delayed browning of fresh-cut lotus root and five NnNAC genes were identified and studied with RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) assay.
Transcriptional analysis indicated that responses of NnNAC genes to temperature were different: NnNAC1, 2, and 3 were continuously reduced at low temperature (4°C). In contrast, transcripts of NnNAC4 were increased under low temperature condition (4°C). The expression of NnNAC5 showed no obvious difference between the normal and low temperatures.
It is suggested that NnNAC1/2/3 could be important candidates as regulators of fresh-cut lotus root browning.

IV International Conference on Fresh-Cut Produce: Maintaining Quality and Safety

X. Qi, J. Xie, Y. Yi, H. Wang, T. Min

Nelumbo nucifera, browning, PAL, PPO, POD, NAC genes

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2021.1319.13