Physiological and Genetic Analysis of Leaves from the Resprouters of an Old Ginkgo biloba Tree

Ginkgo biloba is a well-known long-lived tree with important economical, ornamental and research value. New stems often resprout naturally from the trunk or roots of old trees to realize rejuvenation. However, physiological molecular mechanisms that underlie resprouting are still unknown. In this study, we investigated 544-year-old female ginkgo vigorous resprouters along base in Yangzhou, China. We compared morphological traits leaves between (SL) branches (OL) found significantly higher thickness, fresh weight, water content SL. particular, depth number leaf lobes were dramatically increased SL, suggesting juvenile characteristics sprouters trees. Transcriptome data showed expression genes related photosynthetic capacity, auxin signaling pathway, stress-associated hormones was upregulated Importantly, levels most secondary metabolites, including kaempferol, isorhamnetin, ginkgolide A, B, C, also identified high key such as PAL FLS, which involved flavonoid synthesis, GGPS, synthesis terpene lactones. These findings reveal distinct well metabolite trees, providing new insight into rejuvenation physiology aging.