Transcriptome and miRNA Reveal the Key Factor Regulating the Somatic Embryogenesis of Camellia oleifera

The key genes involved in plant regeneration play a crucial role in enhancing reproductive capabilities, plant genetic transformation, and gene editing efficiency. Camellia oleifera, a vital woody oil crop, faces challenges in genetic improvement efficiency due to its slow growth and the difficulties it experiences during the regeneration process. This study focused on the expression levels of mRNA and miRNA during the somatic embryogenesis of C. oleifera, and the core genes of plant regeneration involved in the C. oleifera somatic embryogenesis process were identified, including WUSCHEL-related homeobox 4 (WOX4), WOX13, and DNA-Binding One Zinc Finger 5.6 (DOF5.6) during the somatic embryo callus induction phase; WOX11, PLETHORA2 (PLT2), and Growth-regulating factor (GRF) during the somatic embryogenesis and bud regeneration phase; and miRNAs such as miR156, miR319, and miR394. These key regulatory factors may participate in the regulation of plant auxin and cytokinin and play a core role in the regeneration process of C. oleifera. The research data elucidate the process of somatic embryogenesis in C. oleifera at the molecular level. The key regulatory genes identified provide potential targets for improving the regeneration efficiency of C. oleifera and other woody oilseed plants.