Study on the changes of miRNAs and their target genes in regulating anthocyanin synthesis during purple discoloration of cauliflower curd under low temperature stress.

Introduction: Cauliflower is widely cultivated all over the world is attributed to its palatable flavor, high levels of anti-cancer compounds, and diverse array of nutrients. Exposure to extremely cold stress during production can result in a more frequent occurrence of purple discoloration in cauliflower curds. In response to cold stress, plants naturally produce anthocyanins to eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated as a defense mechanism. Methods: This research involved conducting mRNA sequencing analysis on cauliflower curds both before and after exposure to cold stress treatment. Results: It was determined that the up-regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes Discussion: Our preliminary findings identified key miRNAs and their target genes that may be involved in regulating anthocyanin synthesis, thereby enhancing the cold tolerance of cauliflower through mRNA, miRNA, and degradome sequencing. Overall, our study sheds light on the activation of anthocyanin synthesis in flower curds under cold stress conditions as a mechanism to enhance resilience to adverse environmental conditions.