Zhimei Li

Ms. Zhimei Li


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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30 November 2024 in Agronomy
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Journal Article
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ZLZhimei Li
Zhimei Li
HZHougao Zhou
Hougao Zhou
YCYan Chen
Yan Chen
MCMinyi Chen
Minyi Chen
YYYutong Yao
Yutong Yao
Yiwei ZhouYiwei Zhou
Yiwei Zhou
Flower color is one of the most important ornamental traits of chrysanthemums. Previous studies have shown that high temperatures can cause the petals of some chrysanthemum varieties to fade; however, the molecular mechanisms behind this phenomenon remain poorly understood. This study examines the mechanisms of color change in purple chrysanthemums under high-temperature stress using combined metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses. Four chrysanthemum varieties—two heat-stable (‘Zi Feng Che’ and ‘Chrystal Regal’) and two heat-sensitive (‘Zi Hong Tuo Gui’ and ‘Zi Lian’)—were analyzed. High-temperature conditions (35 °C) significantly downregulated key anthocyanins in heat-sensitive varieties, particularly cyanidin-3-O-(3″,6″-O-dimalonyl)glucoside and pelargonidin-3-O-(3″,6″-O-dimalonyl)glucoside. Transcriptome analysis revealed differential gene expression involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis and degradation, with significant enrichment in the MAPK signaling, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, and anthocyanin biosynthesis pathways. The study highlighted the differential expression of CHS, DFR, ANS, GT1, 3AT, and UGT75C1 genes in anthocyanin synthesis between heat-sensitive and heat-tolerant varieties. Compared to heat-stable varieties, the petals of heat-sensitive varieties exhibited greater differential expression of heat-responsive transcription factors, including HSFs, ERFs, MYBs, and WRKYs. Genes that show a significant negative correlation with the downregulated anthocyanins, including Cse_sc012959.1_g030.1 (βG), Cse_sc001798.1_g020.1 (MYB), Cse_sc006944.1_g010.1 (MYB), and Cse_sc000572.1_g090.1 (HSF), might regulate anthocyanin accumulation in chrysanthemums in response to high-temperature stress. These results provide guidance for the cultivation management and variety selection of chrysanthemums under high-temperature conditions. Additionally, they lay the foundation for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of flower color stability under heat stress and for breeding new heat-tolerant varieties.