The MADS-box transcription factor CmAGL11 modulates somatic embryogenesis in Chinese chestnut(Castanea mollissima Blume)

Somatic embryogenesis(SE) is an effective approach of in vitro regeneration that depends on plant cell totipotency. However, largely unknown of molecular mechanisms of SE in woody plants such as Chinese chestnut(Castanea mollissima Blume), limits the development of the woody plant industry. Here, we report the MADS-box transcription factor Cm AGL11 in Chinese chestnut. Cm AGL11 transcripts specifically accumulated in the globular embryo. Overexpression of Cm AGL11 in chestnut callus enhanced its SE capacity, and the development of somatic embryos occurred significantly faster than in the control. RNA-seq results showed that Cm AGL11 affects the expression of several genes related to the gibberellin, auxin, and ethylene pathways. Moreover, the analysis of DNA methylation status indicated that the promoter methylation plays a role in regulation of Cm AGL11 expression during SE. Our results demonstrated that Cm AGL11 plays an important role in the SE process in Chinese chestnut, possibly by regulating gibberellin, auxin, and ethylene pathways. It will help establish an efficient platform to accelerate genetic improvement and germplasm innovation in Chinese chestnut.