Analysis of the difference between early-bolting and non-bolting roots of Angelica dahurica based on transcriptome sequencing

Angelica dahurica（Fisch. ex Hoffm.）Benth.et Hook.f.var.formosana（Boiss.）Shan et Yuan (A. dahurica) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine commonly used in clinic, with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-tumor, antibacterial, whitening and other pharmacological effects. However, early bolting of A. dahurica compromises the quality of the roots and hence is a major limitation for yield of medicinal materials. To date, the molecular factors of early bolting occurrenc and its effect on the growth of A. dahurica are unexplored. Hence, we commenced a transcriptome study by using the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 at two developmental types i.e. early-bolting and non-bolting (normal) roots of A. dahurica. Overall, 2,185 up and 1,414 down-regulated genes were obtained. A large number of identified transcripts were related to genes involved in early bolting. Gene ontology analysis highlighted differentially expressed genes that play a key role in various pathways. These pathways were mainly linked to cellular, molecular and biological processes. The morphological characteristics and coumarins content were also changed signifcantly in the early bolting roots of A. dahurica. This study lays a path towards understanding the transcriptomic control of early bolting in A. dahurica, which could be further applied to enhance the medicinal value.