Comparative transcriptome analysis of waterlogging induced adventitious root and control root of Mentha arvensis

Abstract Waterlogging a significant problem to plant growth in the areas facing the waterlogged condition of the soil. In our previous findings, Mentha arvensis was shown to adapt better in waterlogging conditions by initiating the early onset of adventitious root formation. In this study, we analysed the adventitious root's transcriptome and compared it with the control root. Analysis of differentially expressed genes in adventitious root in comparison with the control root were grouped into four functional categories, i.e., carbohydrate metabolism, antioxidant activity, hormonal regulation, and regulation of transcription factors that may majorly contribute to the development of adventitious roots. Differential expression of the upregulated and uniquely expressing twenty-four transcripts in adventitious roots was validated using q-RT PCR. The biochemical parameters total carbohydrate, total protein contents and antioxidant enzymes such as nitric oxide, catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were enhanced in the adventitious root. These identified transcripts upregulated or uniquely expressed in the adventitious root will be useful to understand their role in the waterlogging-induced emergence and development of adventitious roots, leading to tolerance towards waterlogging stress in plants.