Transcriptomic Responses of Potato to Drought Stress

Abstract Transcriptomic changes in plants during drought stress give insights into the mechanisms with which stabilise their metabolic processes order to cope condition. In potato, understanding such drought-induced transcriptomic is critical because prolonged field interferes tuber formation and bulking period of potato development, eventually affects yield. We hypothesised that phenotypic responses genotypes may be linked differences changes. Using an RNA sequencing approach, we investigated leaves three cultivars (Biogold, Hansa Lady Rosetta) under drought. found more differentially expressed genes (DEGs) tolerant cultivars, Rosetta Biogold, than sensitive cultivar (Hansa). The differential gene expression trend reflected cultivars. For instance, both Biogold but not Hansa, upregulation involved carbohydrate metabolism (e.g., Alpha-glucosidase ), flavonoid biosynthesis Flavanone 3 beta-hydroxylase lipid biosynthesis/transfer nonspecific Lipid Transfer Proteins heat shock proteins secondary metabolites like phenolics lignins. Furthermore, a resulted reduced DEGs also maintained its yield suggesting robust tolerance. Our findings suggest synergistic several different aspects response required obtain