Comparison of transcription level of some involved genes in benzylisoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis and two hypothetical transcription factors (WRKY and bZIP) in different developmental stages of Papaver somniferum

In this study the relationships between transcription rate of two hypothetical transcription factors (WRKY and bZIP) and TYDC, BBE, COR, T6ODM, CODM, SODM, DBOX and NOS which are involved in benzylisoquinoline alkaloids biosynthesis in Papaver somniferum were surveyed. Sampling was performed during five developmental stages including rosette, bud initiation, pendulous bud, flowering and lancing. Investigated parts were root, bottom part of stem, leaf, upper part of stem, capsule wall and capsule content. The results showed that there were high degree of consistency among the transcription rate of WRKY and the other genes which are involved in benzylisoquinoline alkaloids biosynthesis specially TYDC. Since TYDC is one of the initial genes in benzylisoquinoline alkaloid pathway, it seems that WRKY affect the entire pathway by changing TYDC transcription rate. Surprisingly, a coordinate regulation was seen among transcription rate of bZIP and the genes involved in benzylisoquiniline biosynthetic pathway. Since the modulation of secondary metabolism and Defense against pathogens have been respectively attributed to WRKY and bZIP functions and production of benzylisoquiniline alkaloids is related to defense against plant pathogens and avoiding UV injuries, it seems that the transcription rate of these transcription factors and benzylisoquiniline biosynthetic genes are closely related.