and Genes Over-Expression in () and () Regulate Flower Color and Branch Number

Flower breeders are continually refining their methods for producing high-quality flowers. species are considered the most important commercially grown orchids. Advances in genetic engineering technology have provided researchers with new tools that can be used along with traditional breeding methods to enhance floral traits and quality. However, the application of molecular techniques for the breeding of new species has been relatively rare. In this study, we constructed recombinant plasmids carrying flower color-related genes, Chalcone synthase () and/or Flavonoid 3',5'-hydroxylase (). These genes were transformed into both and plants using a gene gun or an -based method. Compared with WT, and both had deeper color and higher anthocyanin content in plants. Additionally, a phenotypic comparison with wild-type controls indicated the or -transgenic produced more branches, petals, and labial petals. Moreover, or -transgenic both showed deepened lip color, compared with the control. However, the intensity of the coloration of the lips decreased when protocorms were co-transformed with both and The results of this study confirm that and affect flower color in and may be relevant for the breeding of new orchid varieties with desirable flowering traits.