Investigation of genes involved in scent and color production in Rosa damascena Mill

Abstract Rosa damascena Mill., commonly known as the King Flower, is a fragrant and important species of the Rosaceae family. It is widely used in the perfumery and pharmaceutical industries. The scent and color of the flowers are significant characteristics of this ornamental plant. This study aimed to investigate the relative expression of MYB1, CCD1, FLS, PAL, CER1, GT1, ANS and PAR genes under two growth stages (S1 and S2) in two morphs. The CCD1 gene pathway is highly correlated with the biosynthesis of volatile compounds. The results showed that the overexpression of MYB1, one of the important transcription factors in the production of fragrance and color, in the Hot pink morph of sample S2 increased the expression of PAR, PAL, FLS, RhGT1, CCD1, ANS, CER1, and GGPPS. The methyl jasmonate (MeJA) stimulant had a positive and cumulative effect on gene expression in most genes, such as FLS in ACC.26 of the S2 sample, RhGT1, MYB1, CCD1, PAR, ANS, CER1, and PAL in ACC.1. To further study, a comprehensive analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between the principal volatile compounds and colors. Our data suggest that the rose with pink flowers had a higher accumulation content of flavonoids and anthocyanin. To separate essential oil compounds, GC/MS analysis identified 26 compounds in four samples. The highest amount of geraniol, one of the main components of damask rose, was found in the Hot pink flower, 23.54%, under the influence of the MeJA hormone.