Exploring the Regulatory Dynamics of BrFLC -Associated lncRNA in Modulating the Flowering Response of Chinese Cabbage.

Vernalization plays a crucial role in the flowering and yield of Chinese cabbage, a process intricately influenced by long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Our research focused on lncFLC1 , lncFLC2a , and lncFLC2b , which emerged as key players in this process. These lncRNAs exhibited an inverse expression pattern to the flowering repressor genes FLOWERING LOCUS C 1 ( BrFLC1 ) and FLOWERING LOCUS C 2 ( BrFLC2 ) during vernalization, suggesting a complex regulatory mechanism. Notably, their expression in the shoot apex and leaves was confirmed through in fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). Furthermore, when these lncRNAs were overexpressed in Arabidopsis , a noticeable acceleration in flowering was observed, unveiling functional similarities to Arabidopsis 's COLD ASSISTED INTRONIC NONCODING RNA ( COOLAIR ). This resemblance suggests a potentially conserved regulatory mechanism across species. This study not only enhances our understanding of lncRNAs in flowering regulation, but also opens up new possibilities for their application in agricultural practices.