Cytological, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses of golden leaf coloration in Ginkgo biloba L

Abstract

Leaf color: Golden secrets of Ginkgo biloba Studying a mutant variety of the popular ornamental tree Ginkgo biloba reveals insights into the molecular mechanisms controlling gold and yellow coloration in plant leaves. Biao Jin at Yangzhou University, China, and colleagues, compared the cell biology, physiology and gene activity of a gold-leafed mutant form of the tree and the normal green-leafed form. The golden mutant has fewer and smaller chloroplasts—the green bodies within cells that capture light energy during photosynthesis. These chloroplasts also have several disrupted internal structures. The levels of key pigment molecules, including chlorophylls, carotenoids and flavonoids are also altered in the mutant leaves. The most significant factor producing the golden coloration is an increased level of carotenoids relative to chlorophylls. Understanding the factors controlling leaf coloration might help horticulturists to manipulate this characteristic of ornamental trees and shrubs.