The MdHY5-MdWRKY41-MdMYB transcription factor cascade regulates the anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin biosynthesis in red-fleshed apple

Abstract

Red-fleshed apple fruits are popular because of their high flavonoid content. Although MdMYB10 and its homologs have been identified as crucial regulators of the fruit coloring process, other transcription factors (TFs) contributing to the differences in flesh coloration have not been fully characterized. In this study, we investigated the regulatory effects of MdWRKY41 on anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin (PA) synthesis in red-fleshed apples. The overexpression of MdWRKY41 in red-fleshed apple calli inhibited anthocyanin and PA accumulation by downregulating the expression of a MYB TF gene (MdMYB12) and specific structural genes (MdLAR, MdUFGT, and MdANR). Furthermore, MdWRKY41 was shown to interact with MdMYB16 to form a complex that can further suppress MdANR and MdUFGT expression. Interestingly, MdWRKY41 was targeted by the photoresponse factor MdHY5 and inhibited its transcription. Overall, our findings provide insights into a novel MdHY5-MdWRKY41-MdMYB regulatory module influencing anthocyanin and PA synthesis in red-fleshed apple fruits.