Bark transcriptome analyses reveals molecular mechanisms involved in tapping panel dryness occurrence and development in rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis)

Tapping panel dryness (TPD) has become the most important limiting factor for increasing natural rubber yield, whereas illuminating the molecular mechanisms underlying TPD is the prerequisite for solving the problem of TPD. However, molecular mechanisms underlying TPD are largely unknown. In this study, healthy and different stages of TPD-affected rubber trees were utilized to analyze TPD for the first time. We found that the changing tendencies of key latex physiological parameters were closely related to TPD occurrence and development. To reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying TPD, we sequenced and compared bark transcriptomes among healthy rubber tree, and TPD-affected ones at initial and advanced stages. In total, 8607 genes were identified as TPD-related genes in contrast to healthy rubber tree. According to gene expression profiles, the five samples were divided into three groups including healthy rubber tree, and TPD-affected rubber tree in the initial and advanced stages, which was consistent with the stages of TPD occurrence and development. Interestingly, only a small proportion of the TPD-related genes were constantly down-or up-regulated with TPD occurrence and development. The TPD-related genes in KEGG pathways significantly enriched were closely associated with protein metabolism, cell division and differentiation, PCD, stress responses, terpene biosynthesis, and various meta-bolism processes. Moreover, overexpression of HbAPX2 identified as a TPD-related gene enhanced oxidative stress tolerance in S. cerevisiae. The typical symptoms of TPD, partial or complete dry zone (no latex flow) on tapping panel, might attribute to lower IPP available for rubber biosynthesis, and downregulation of the genes in post-IPP steps of rubber biosynthesis and the genes involved in latex flow. Our results not only provide new insights into molecular mechanisms underlying TPD occurrence and development but also contribute to developing effective measures to control TPD in rubber trees.

Automated summary

This study analyzed tapping panel dryness (TPD) in rubber trees, finding that key latex physiological parameters were closely related to TPD occurrence and development. By sequencing and comparing transcriptomes, 8607 genes were identified as TPD-related genes. These genes are involved in processes such as protein metabolism, cell division and differentiation, programmed cell death, stress responses, terpene biosynthesis, and metabolism. The study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of TPD and contributes to controlling TPD in rubber trees.