Comparative transcriptome profiling provides insights into endocarp lignification of walnut (Juglans Regia L.)

Lignin is the main component of walnut endocarp, however, we know little about transcriptional responses and its potential regulatory mechanisms lignin formation in endocarp. Here selected two genotypes with different endocarp thickness, ‘Liaoning 7’ (L7) ‘Zanmei’ (ZM; thicker than L7), to study response mechanism that caused difference this character between them. The time regularity deposition were studied by microsection it was found key period lignification 30–45 days after full bloom (DAFB); Then, transcriptome sequencing performed identify genes pathways during period. differentially expressed (DEGs) significantly enriched several such as plant hormone signal transduction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis starch sucrose metabolism both cultivars. DEGs involved upregulated 45 DAFB, but more ZM L7. Several important pathway Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) results consistent data. This provides candidate for exploring metabolic processes lignin.