PaGL1-like2 from Platanus acerifolia regulates anthocyanin accumulation and plant architecture

The London plane ( Platanus acerifolia ) is an important street tree known for its branching characteristics, making it valuable for garden applications. R2R3-MYB transcription factors play a crucial role in regulating plant development and metabolism. In this study, we isolated the PaGL1-like2 gene, which encodes an R2R3-MYB transcription factor from P. acerifolia , and its gene function was validated. Overexpression of PaGL1-like2 in tobacco altered the expression levels of structural genes in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway, resulting in changes in the accumulation of metabolites such as anthocyanins, flavonols, and lignin. Additionally, overexpression of this gene led to architectural changes in tobacco plants, including axillary bud outgrowth, leaf narrowing, and increased branching angles of leaf stalks. Transcriptome analysis indicated that PaGL1-like2 may regulate the expression of genes involved in plant hormone signal transduction, as well as starch and sugar metabolism pathways, ultimately influencing tobacco plant architecture. These findings suggest that PaGL1-like2 is involved in various biological processes due to its multifunctionality. Furthermore, this study provides valuable insights and strategies for the regulation of woody plant architecture. • PaGL1-like2 is a multifunctional gene involved in the regulation of anthocyanins accumulation and plant architecture. • PaGL1-like2 along with plant hormones, sugars, and BRC1, forms a complex regulatory network to regulate plant architecture. • PaGL1-like2 can activate the promoter activities of AtANS and AtDFR , however, the MBW complex has stronger activation.