Full-length transcriptome sequences by a combination of sequencing platforms applied to isoflavonoid and triterpenoid saponin biosynthesis of Astragalus mongholicus Bunge

Abstract Background Astragalus mongholicus Bunge is an important medicinal plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. It rich isoflavonoids and triterpenoid saponins. Although these active constituents of A. have been discovered for a long time, the genetic basis isoflavonoid saponin biosynthesis this virtually unknown because lack reference genome. Here, we combination next-generation sequencing (NGS) single-molecule real-time (SMRT) to identify genes involved biosynthetic pathway secondary metabolites . Results In study, NGS, SMRT sequencing, targeted compound analysis were combined investigate association between content, specific gene expression root, stem, leaves Overall, 643,812 CCS reads generated, yielding 121,107 non-redundant transcript isoforms with N50 value 2124 bp. Based on highly accurate transcripts, 104,756 (86.50%) transcripts successfully annotated by any seven databases (NR, NT, Swissprot, KEGG, KOG, Pfam GO). Levels four astragalosides (triterpenoid saponins) determined. Forty-four differentially expressed (DEGs) 44 DEGs from 16 families that encode enzymes identified. Transcription factors (TFs) associated biosynthesis, including 72 MYBs, 53 bHLHs, 64 AP2-EREBPs, 11 bZIPs, also The above showed different trends organs. Conclusions This study provides information are essential developing plant.