GSE107807
Integrative analysis of the einkorn (Triticum monococum) grain reveals new mechanisms of response to sulfur deficiency
In wheat, the main staple crop in many regions of the word, one major challenge is to improve the yield potential while maintaining the grain quality, which is mainly defined by its protein concentration and composition. To achieve this goal, it is essential to considerate the nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) nutrition, which strongly influences the grain storage protein (GSP) composition. Nowadays, the limitation of nitrogen inputs and the sulfur deficiency recently observed in soils represent major difficulties to control the grain quality. Thus, identification of the molecular mechanisms that control the accumulation of GSP in response to N and S supply is necessary. In this study, we applied four post-anthesis N and S treatments to an einkorn (Triticum monococcum) culture. Effects of the treatments on the grain transcriptome and metabolome were evaluated at different times during grain development. From the 386 differentially expressed genes and the 21 metabolites differentially accumulated, our results have revealed a strong impact of a high-N supply without any added S. A large majority of genes were transiently influenced by the treatments while others showed strong modifications of their kinetics of expression during grain filling. We hypothesized the role of several genes (e.ge.g. sulfate transporters, transcriptional regulators) in the adjustment of the N-to-S ratio in response to a S deficiency. These genes could coordinate the amino acid pool necessary for GSP synthesis. These new results contribute in facing the challenge of maintaining wheat grain quality for the development of more sustainable agriculture. Overall design: Transcriptome comparisons between four N and S treatments and between six grain develomental stages in three replicates