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Key message: SmbHLH93can activate the expression of SmCHS, SmANS, SmDFR and SmF3H.Overexpression of SmbHLH93promotes anthocyanin biosynthesis. SmbHLH93can interact with SmMYB1 to promote anthocyanin accumulation. As an outstanding source of anthocyanins, eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is extremely beneficial for human health. In the process of anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant, the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor family plays a crucial role. However, the bHLH gene family is extensive, making it difficult to systematically screen and analyze their functions using conventional methods. We studied the phylogeny, gene structure, conserved motifs, promoter element, and chromosomal location of the 166 SmbHLH genes in the recently released eggplant genome. Through the analysis of transcriptomic data of eggplant peel treated with light, it was found that SmbHLH93 was the most responsive to light among those of unknown function. Additionally, it was discovered that SmbHLH93 plays a positive regulatory role in anthocyanin synthesis through dual-luciferase reporter assay(dual-LUC) and genetic transformation in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Furthermore, experiments involving yeast two-hybrid (Y2H), luciferase complementation assay (Split-LUC), and tobacco transient transformation demonstrated that SmbHLH93 has the ability to interact with SmMYB1 in order to enhance anthocyanin accumulation. This study will serve as a foundation for exploring the role of SmbHLH transcription factors in anthocyanin biosynthesis in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peel glossiness is an important commercial trait of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). In this study, two eggplant-inbred lines with different levels of peel glossiness were used to identify genes related to peel glossiness. Paraffin section analysis showed that increased wax thickness and wrinkles on the wax surface of eggplant peels decreased glossiness. Differential gene expression related to eggplant peel glossiness was analyzed by comparing the transcriptomes of eggplant peels with different gloss levels and at different developmental stages. The results identified 996 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 502 upregulated and 494 downregulated genes, possibly related to eggplant peel glossiness. GO enrichment and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that the DNA replication pathway (GO:0003688, GO:0006270) and the photosynthesis pathway (map00195) were downregulated and thus may be associated with reduced eggplant peel glossiness. Expression level analysis of eggplant peels with different glossiness levels revealed that a C2H2 transcription factor gene, two ERF transcription factor genes, one long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase gene, and four wax- or cutin-related genes may be associated with the glossiness of eggplant fruit peels. These findings will help guide future genetic improvements in eggplant peel glossiness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: SmZHDs was highly expressed in anthocyanin-rich parts of eggplant. SmZHD12 can activate the expression of SmCHS, SmANS, SmDFR and SmF3H. Overexpression of SmZHD12 promotes anthocyanin biosynthesis in Arabidopsis. The Zinc finger-homeodomain (ZHD) proteins family genes are known to play a significant role in plant development and physiological processes. However, the evolutionary history and function of the ZHD gene family in eggplant remain largely unexplored. This study categorizes a total of 15 SmZHD genes into SmMIF and SmZHD subfamilies based on conserved domains. The phylogeny, gene structure, conserved motifs, promoter elements, and chromosomal locations of the SmZHD genes were comprehensively analyzed. Tissue expression profiles indicate that the majority of SmZHD genes are expressed in anthocyanin-rich areas. qRT-PCR assays revealed distinct expression patterns of SmZHD genes in response to various treatments, indicating their potential involvement in multiple signaling pathways. Analysis of transcriptomic data from light-treated eggplant peel identified SmZHD12 as the most light-responsive gene among the 15 SmZHD genes. Consequently, this study provides further evidence that SmZHD12 facilitates anthocyanin accumulation in Arabidopsis leaves by upregulating the expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes, as confirmed by dual-luciferase assays and Arabidopsis genetic transformation. Our study will lay a solid foundation for the in-depth study of the involvement of SmZHD genes in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf color mutants are ideal materials for studying chlorophyll metabolism, chloroplast development, and photosynthesis in plants. We discovered a novel eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) mutant yl20 (yellow leaf 20) that exhibits yellow leaves. In this study, we compared the leaves of the mutant yl20 and wild type (WT) plants for cytological, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses. The results showed that the mutant yl20 exhibits abnormal chloroplast ultrastructure, reduced chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, and lower photosynthetic efficiency compared to the WT. Transcriptome data indicated 3267 and 478 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between WT and yl20 lines in the cotyledon and euphylla stages, respectively, where most DEGs were downregulated in the yl20. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed the "plastid-encoded plastid RNA polymerase complex" and the "chloroplast-related" terms were significantly enriched. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis demonstrated that the significantly enriched DEGs were involved in flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, etc. We speculated that these DEGs involved in significant terms were closely related to the leaf color development of the mutant yl20. Our results provide a possible explanation for the altered phenotype of leaf color mutants in eggplant and lay a theoretical foundation for plant breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the effects of organic fertilizer and foliar application of mallow leaf extract on the growth and yield of eggplant was the aim of this latest study held in spring 2021 in the Al-Najaf Province, Iraq. The treatments comprising adding decomposed palm waste to the soil at three levels (0, 16, and 32 mg ha-1), foliar application of mallow leaf extract at three concentrations (0, 0.2, and 0.4 gm.l-1), and their interactions incurred probing in eggplants. The experiment began in a randomized complete blocks design (RCBD) with factorial arrangement and three replications. The results obtained through the analysis of variance continued to further evaluation through the least significant difference test to compare and separate the various means. The results showed that organic fertilization with decomposing palm residues at 32 mg ha-1 significantly outperformed the other treatments for plant height, total leaves, dry weight of vegetative growth, fruits per plant, yield per plant, total yield, nitrogen (%), and total chlorophyll content in the leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Fruit flesh colour is not only an important commodity attribute of eggplant but is also closely related to maturity. However, very little is known about its formation mechanism in eggplant. Results Two inbred lines of eggplant, green 'NC7' and white 'BL', were used in this study to explain the differences in flesh colour. Transcriptome sequencing results revealed a total of 3304 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in NC7 vs. BL. Of the DEGs obtained, 2050 were higher and 1254 were lower in BL. These DEGs were annotated to 126 pathways, where porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, flavonoid biosynthesis, and photosynthesis-antenna proteins play vital roles in the colour formation of eggplant flesh. At the same time, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment significance analysis showed that a large number of unigenes involved in the formation of chloroplast structure were lower in BL, which indicated that the formation of chloroplasts in white-fleshed eggplant was blocked. This was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which found only leucoplasts but no chloroplasts in the flesh cells of white-fleshed eggplant. Several genes encoding ERF and bHLH transcription factors were predicted to participate in the regulation of chlorophyll biosynthetic genes. Conclusions The results of this study indicated that differences in the gene expression of the chlorophyll metabolic pathway were the main cause of the different flesh colour formations. These findings will increase our understanding of the genetic basis in eggplant flesh colors formation mechanism.

Leaf color mutants are ideal materials for studying chlorophyll metabolism, chloroplast development, and photosynthesis in plants. We discovered a novel eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) mutant yl20 (yellow leaf 20) that exhibits yellow leaves. In this study, we compared the leaves of the mutant yl20 and wild type (WT) plants for cytological, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses. The results showed that the mutant yl20 exhibits abnormal chloroplast ultrastructure, reduced chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, and lower photosynthetic efficiency compared to the WT. Transcriptome data indicated 3267 and 478 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between WT and yl20 lines in the cotyledon and euphylla stages, respectively, where most DEGs were downregulated in the yl20. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed the “plastid-encoded plastid RNA polymerase complex” and the “chloroplast-related” terms were significantly enriched. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis demonstrated that the significantly enriched DEGs were involved in flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, etc. We speculated that these DEGs involved in significant terms were closely related to the leaf color development of the mutant yl20. Our results provide a possible explanation for the altered phenotype of leaf color mutants in eggplant and lay a theoretical foundation for plant breeding.

Key message: Comparative transcriptome analysis of early fruits of long and round eggplants, SmOVATE5, is involved in regulating fruit development. Eggplant, a solanaceous crop that has undergone a long period of domestication, is one of the most important vegetables worldwide. The shape of its fruit is an important agronomic trait and consumers in different regions have different preferences. However, a limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating fruit development and shape has hindered eggplant breeding. In this study, we performed morphological observations and transcriptome analysis of long- and round-fruited eggplant genotypes to understand the molecular regulation during the early development of different fruit shapes. Morphological studies revealed that the two varieties already exhibited distinctly different phenotypes at the initial stage of fruit development before flowering, with rapid fruit enlargement beginning on the sixth day after flowering. Comparative transcriptome analysis identified phytohormone-related genes that were significantly upregulated on the day of flowering, indicating they may be involved in regulating the initial stages of fruit development. Notably, SmARF1 showed a sustained upregulation pattern in both varieties, suggesting that it may promote eggplant fruit growth. In addition, several differentially expressed genes of the SUN, YABBY, and OVATE families are potentially involved in the regulation of fruit development or fruit shape. We demonstrated that the SmOVATE5 gene has a negative regulatory function suppressing plant growth and development. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the molecular regulatory mechanisms of eggplant fruit development, and the genes identified may provide valuable references for different fruit shape breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low temperatures have a negative impact on eggplant growth and development. Also, cold stress especially causes yield-limiting during the Autumn growth season. So, the experiment was carried out in the net house at the Central Laboratory for Agricultural Climate, Giza, Egypt during the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 seasons. These studied factors were three different levels of phosphorus fertilizer (50,100 and 150% from recommended before transplanting doses) and foliar spraying with potassium silicate (0, 1, 2, 4 and 8gl-1). The effect of the two studied factors on growth, yield and quality of eggplant plants was tested. The experimental design was split-plot design with three replicates. The obtained results showed that applying 100% of phosphorus fertilizer has a significant positive effect on all studied traits. Otherwise, the least values were recorded by applying 50% of phosphorus fertilizer in the two seasons. Foliar spraying with potassium silicate at 1gl-1 increased all measured values on eggplant plants. On the contrary, the lowest values were reported by foliar spraying with potassium silicate at 8gl-1 in the two study seasons. The application combined 100% of phosphorus fertilizer rate and foliar spraying with potassium silicate at 1gl-1 had the best of all measured parameters. Alternatively, the lowest values were obtained by the application combined application 50% of phosphorus fertilizer and foliar spraying with potassium silicate at 8gL-1 under conditions trail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL), iron oxide nanoparticles, Plant extracts from Mentha spicata L., Vitex negundo L., and Eucalyptus globulus M., in chitosan biopolymer matrix has created a significant contribution for the development of Bio-formulated polymer composites. The migration test performed for the formulated Bio-composites have satisfactory results with very less amount of residue get migrated that revealed a suitable material for packaging application. The developed bio-formulated polymer composites achieved an excellent biodegradation activity of about 80–93% through the acceleration of soil microbial flora. The SEM and EDAX analysis confirmed the surface degradability variation observed for 5 weeks. The present study is focused on the application of biodegraded soil for promoting the Eggplant growth (Solanum melongena L.) and its eco-efficacy evaluated by enhancing the development of an eco-characteristic active bio-nanomaterials which resulted a positive impact in packaging and agricultural sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: The putative TCP genes and their responses to abiotic stress in eggplant were comprehensively characterized, and SmTCP genes (Smechr0202855.1 and Smechr0602431.1) may be involved in anthocyanin synthesis. The Teosinte branched1/Cycloidea/Proliferating cell factors (TCPs), a family of plant-specific transcription factors, plays paramount roles in a plethora of developmental and physiological processes. We here systematically characterized putative TCP genes and their response to abiotic stress in eggplant. In total, 30 SmTCP genes were categorized into two subfamilies based on the classical TCP conserved domains. Chromosomal location analysis illustrated the random distribution of putative SmTCP genes along 12 eggplant chromosomes. Cis-acting elements and miRNA target prediction suggested that versatile and complicated regulatory mechanisms that control SmTCPs gene expression, and 3 miRNAs (miR319a, miR319b, and miR319c-3p) might act as major regulators targeting SmTCPs. Tissue expression profiles indicated divergent spatiotemporal expression patterns of SmTCPs. qRT-PCR assays demonstrated different expression profiles of SmTCP under 4 °C, drought and ABA treatment conditions, suggesting the possible participation of SmTCP genes in multiple signaling pathways. Furthermore, RNA-seq data of eggplant anthocyanin synthesis coupled with yeast one-hybrid and dual-luciferase assays suggested the involvement of SmTCP genes (Smechr0202855.1 and Smechr0602431.1) in the mediation of anthocyanin synthesis. Our study will facilitate further investigation on the putative functional characterization of eggplant TCP genes and lay a solid foundation for the in-depth study of the involvement of SmTCP genes in the regulation of anthocyanin synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) populations facilitate the genetic dissection of complex quantitative traits in plants and are valuable breeding materials. We report the development of the first eggplant MAGIC population (S3 Magic EGGplant InCanum, S3MEGGIC; 8-way), constituted by the 420 S3 individuals developed from the intercrossing of seven cultivated eggplant (Solanum melongena) and one wild relative (S. incanum) parents. The S3MEGGIC recombinant population was genotyped with the eggplant 5k probes SPET platform and phenotyped for anthocyanin presence in vegetative plant tissues (PA) and fruit epidermis (FA), and for the light-insensitive anthocyanic pigmentation under the calyx (PUC). The 7,724 filtered high-confidence single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) confirmed a low residual heterozygosity (6.87%), a lack of genetic structure in the S3MEGGIC population, and no differentiation among subpopulations carrying a cultivated or wild cytoplasm. Inference of haplotype blocks of the nuclear genome revealed an unbalanced representation of the founder genomes, suggesting a cryptic selection in favour or against specific parental genomes. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis for PA, FA, and PUC detected strong associations with two myeloblastosis (MYB) genes similar to MYB113 involved in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, and with a COP1 gene which encodes for a photo-regulatory protein and may be responsible for the PUC trait. Evidence was found of a duplication of an ancestral MYB113 gene with a translocation from chromosome 10 to chromosome 1 compared with the tomato genome. Parental genotypes for the three genes were in agreement with the identification of the candidate genes performed in the S3MEGGIC population. Our new eggplant MAGIC population is the largest recombinant population in eggplant and is a powerful tool for eggplant genetics and breeding studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) populations facilitate the genetic dissection of complex quantitative traits in plants and are valuable breeding materials. We report the development of the first eggplant MAGIC population (S3 Magic EGGplant InCanum, S3MEGGIC; 8-way), constituted by the 420 S3 individuals developed from the intercrossing of seven cultivated eggplant (Solanum melongena) and one wild relative (S. incanum) parents. The S3MEGGIC recombinant population was genotyped with the eggplant 5k probes SPET platform and phenotyped for anthocyanin presence in vegetative plant tissues (PA) and fruit epidermis (FA), and for the light-insensitive anthocyanic pigmentation under the calyx (PUC). The 7,724 filtered high-confidence single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) confirmed a low residual heterozygosity (6.87%), a lack of genetic structure in the S3MEGGIC population, and no differentiation among subpopulations carrying a cultivated or wild cytoplasm. Inference of haplotype blocks of the nuclear genome revealed an unbalanced representation of the founder genomes, suggesting a cryptic selection in favour or against specific parental genomes. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis for PA, FA, and PUC detected strong associations with two myeloblastosis (MYB) genes similar to MYB113 involved in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, and with a COP1 gene which encodes for a photo-regulatory protein and may be responsible for the PUC trait. Evidence was found of a duplication of an ancestral MYB113 gene with a translocation from chromosome 10 to chromosome 1 compared with the tomato genome. Parental genotypes for the three genes were in agreement with the identification of the candidate genes performed in the S3MEGGIC population. Our new eggplant MAGIC population is the largest recombinant population in eggplant and is a powerful tool for eggplant genetics and breeding studies.

This work was carried out at Vegetable Private Farm at Bani Amer Village, Zagazig Distract, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt during the two successive summer seasons of 2017 and 2018, to study the performance of ten eggplant genotypes; i.e., Little Fingers (L.F.), Ping Tung (P.T.), Antigua (An.), Aswad (As.), Japanese White Egg (J.W.E.), Apple Green (A.G.), Rotonda Bianca Stumata di Rosa ( R.B.S.), Korean Red (K.R.), Black Oblong (B.O.) and Black very Long (B.V.L.); under three intra- row plant spacings, (30, 45 and 60 cm). The ten cultivars were evaluate in clay soil and surface irrigation. The ten cultivars were evaluated transplanting R.B.S. and B.V.L. cvs. at 45 cm gave the tallest plants. Transplanting A.G. and K.R. cvs. at 60 cm increased number of branches and number of leaves/ plant without significant differences between each other the case of number of branches/ plant in both seasons. Transplanting K.R. and B.O. cvs. at 60 cm increased leaf area and dry weight of leaves, respectively. However, transplanting R.B.S. cv. at 60 cm increased both chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophyll (a+b) in leaf tissues, While the interaction between transplanting K.R. cv. on spacing at 30 cm gave the lowest concentration of chlorophyll a, b, total (a+b) and carotenoids in leaf tissues of eggplant in 2018 season. With respect yield and its components, planting P.T. cv. at 60 cm and B.O. cv. at 45 increased number of fruits/plant, yield/plant, respectively. While planting As. cv. at 30 cm increased average fruit weight and total yield /fad. In the 2nd season, planting K.R. cv. at 60 cm, B.O. cv. at 45 cm, B.O. cv. at 60 cm and B.O. cv. at 30 cm increased number of fruits/ plant, average fruit weight, yield/ plant and total yield/ fad., respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Light is a key environmental factor in regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis. Through a large number of bagging screenings, we obtained non-photosensitive eggplants that still have decent amount of anthocyanin synthesized after bagging. In the present study, transcriptome was made to explore the molecular mechanism of dark-regulated anthocyanin synthesis in non-photosensitive eggplant. Results The transcriptome of the pericarp at 0 h, 0.5 h, 4 h, and 8 h after bag removal were sequenced and analyzed. Comparison of the sequencing data with those of photosensitive eggplant for the same time period showed that anthocyanin synthesis genes had different expression trends. Based on the expression trends of the structural genes, it was discovered that 22 transcription factors and 4 light signal transduction elements may be involved in the anthocyanin synthesis in two types of eggplants. Through transcription factor target gene prediction and yeast one-hybrid assay, SmBIM1, SmAP2, SmHD, SmMYB94, SmMYB19, SmTT8, SmYABBY, SmTTG2, and SmMYC2 were identified to be directly or indirectly bound to the promoter of the structural gene SmCHS. These results indicate that the identified 9 genes participated in the anthocyanin synthesis in eggplant peel and formed a network of interactions among themselves. Conclusions Based on the comparative transcription, the identified 22 transcription factors and 4 light signal transduction elements may act as the key factors in dark regulated anthocyanin synthesis in non-photosensitive eggplant. The results provided a step stone for further analysis of the molecular mechanism of dark-regulated anthocyanin synthesis in non-photosensitive eggplant.

Anther indehiscence is an important form of functional male sterility that can facilitate the production of hybrid seeds. However, the molecular mechanisms of anther indehiscence-based male sterility in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) have not been thoroughly explored. We performed transcriptome sequencing and real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) assays to compare the fertile line (F142) and male sterile line (S12) eggplant. We identified 2,670 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between lines. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses identified 31 DEGs related to hormone biosynthesis. We, therefore, measured phytohormone contents, such as jasmonic acid (JA), auxin (IAA), gibberellin (GA), and abscisic acid (ABA) in S12 and F142. There were differences in IAA, GA3, and ABA levels between S12 and F142, while JA levels were significantly lower in S12 than in F142. Five key genes in the JA signaling pathway were differentially expressed in S12 vs. F142. Of these, SmJAZ1 and SmJAR1 were significantly upregulated and SmDAD1, SmLOX, and SmCOI1 were downregulated in S12 vs. F142. Protein–protein interaction studies identified a direct interaction between SmDAD1 and SmLOX, while SmDAD1 failed to interact with SmJAR1, SmCOI1, and SmJAZ1. The data represent a valuable resource for further exploration of regulatory mechanisms underlying anther dehiscence in eggplant.

Anther indehiscence is an important form of functional male sterility that can facilitate the production of hybrid seeds. However, the molecular mechanisms of anther indehiscence-based male sterility in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) have not been thoroughly explored. We performed transcriptome sequencing and real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) assays to compare the fertile line (F142) and male sterile line (S12) eggplant. We identified 2,670 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between lines. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses identified 31 DEGs related to hormone biosynthesis. We, therefore, measured phytohormone contents, such as jasmonic acid (JA), auxin (IAA), gibberellin (GA), and abscisic acid (ABA) in S12 and F142. There were differences in IAA, GA3, and ABA levels between S12 and F142, while JA levels were significantly lower in S12 than in F142. Five key genes in the JA signaling pathway were differentially expressed in S12 vs. F142. Of these, SmJAZ1 and SmJAR1 were significantly upregulated and SmDAD1, SmLOX , and SmCOI1 were downregulated in S12 vs. F142. Protein–protein interaction studies identified a direct interaction between SmDAD1 and SmLOX, while SmDAD1 failed to interact with SmJAR1, SmCOI1, and SmJAZ1. The data represent a valuable resource for further exploration of regulatory mechanisms underlying anther dehiscence in eggplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Soil salinization is one of the most crucial abiotic stresses that limit the growth and production of eggplant. The existing researches in eggplant were mostly focused on salt-induced morphological, biochemical and physiological changes, with only limited works centered on salt-response genes in eggplant at the transcriptomic level. Results Our preliminary work found that Zhusiqie (No.118) is salt-tolerant and Hongqie (No.30) is salt-sensitive. Consequently, they were re-named as ST118 and SS30, respectively. ST118 showed less damaged on growth and higher K+/Na+ ratios in leaves than SS30. Comparative-transcriptome analysis was used as a powerful approach to understand the salt-response mechanisms in the leaves and roots of SS30 and ST118. And it revealed that genotype-specific and organ-specific manners exist in eggplant in response to salt stress. Strikingly, the genotype-specific differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in ST118 were considered crucial to its higher salt-tolerance, because the expression patterns of common DEGs in the leaves/roots of the two eggplant genotypes were almost the same. Among them, some transcription factors have been reported to be in response to elevated external salinity, including the members of C2C2-CO-like, WRKY, MYB and NAC family. In addition, the AKT1, KAT1 and SOS1 were up-regulated only in the leaves of ST118. Furthermore, the complementation assays demonstrated that the salt-tolerances of both yeast and Arabidopsis akt1 mutants were enhanced by heterologous expression of SmAKT1. Conclusion The comparative-transcriptome analysis indicated that the salt-tolerance can be increased by higher transcript level of some genotype-specific genes. This work revealed that eggplants seem to be more inclined to absorb K+ rather than to exclude Na+ under salt stress conditions because seven K+ transporters were significantly up-regulated, while only one Na+ transporter was similarly regulated. Finally, the complementation assays of SmAKT1, which is genotype-specific up-regulated in ST118, suggest that the other TFs and K+ transport genes were worthy of future investigation for their functions in salinity tolerance.

Organic vegetable production is particularly affected by weed pressure and mechanical weeding is the major tactic implemented by growers to keep weeds under economic thresholds. Living mulch (LM) has been shown to provide several environmental services; however, LM management is required to avoid competition between service crops and cash crops. The aim of this trial was to evaluate two innovative LM-based management systems: a system that provided LM growth regulation by means of flaming (LM-FL) and a system where the LM was regularly mowed by an autonomous mower (LM-AM), both compared with a control without LM and based on standard tillage operations (TILL). The three management systems were evaluated in terms of crop production, weed control, and energy consumption on a 2 yr organic crop rotation of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var botrytis) and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). LM-AM produced an acceptable fresh marketable yield for both vegetable crops. Moreover, the weed dry biomass obtained in LM-AM-managed plots was lower compared to the LM-FL plots and ranged approximately from 200 to 300 kg ha−1. Furthermore, LM-AM management resulted in lower energy consumption (−2330 kWh ha−1 with respect to the TILL system and −7225 kWh ha−1 with respect to the LM-FL system). The results of this trial suggest that autonomous mowers have a great potential to improve LM management and help with implementing sustainable organic vegetable systems.

Abstract Background The anthocyanins are highly enriched in eggplants (Solanum melongena L.) with purple peel. However, our previous study showed that anthocyanins biosynthesis in eggplant cultivar ‘Lanshan Hexian’ was completely regulated by light and color becomes evident at most 2 days after exposure to light. In the present investigation, transcriptome study was made to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) before color becomes evident. Results RNA-Seq was performed for four time points (0, 0.5, 4 and 8 h after bags removal) where concerted changes happened. A total of 32,630 genes or transcripts were obtained by transcriptome sequencing, from which 1956 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found. Gene Ontology analysis showed that the 1956 DEGs covered a wide range of cellular components, molecular functions and biological processes. All the DEGs were further divided into 26 clusters based on their distinct expression patterns. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis found out 24 structural anthocyanin biosynthesis genes which distributing in seven clusters. In addition, 102 transcription factors, which exhibited highly dynamic changes in response to light, were found in the seven clusters. Three photoreceptors, UV Resistance Locus 8 (UVR8), Cryptochrome 3 (CRY3) and UVR3, were identified as DEGs. The light signal transduction elements, COP1 and two SPAs, might be responsible for anthocyanin biosynthesis regulation. Conclusion Based on the transcriptome data, the anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes, transcription factors, photoreceptors and light signal transduction elements were quickly screened which may act as the key regulatory factors in anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway. By comparing the transcriptome data with our previous studies, 869 genes were confirmed to participate in the light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis. These results expand our knowledge of light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis in plants, which allowing for fruit coloration to be improved under low-light conditions in future.

This study seeks to assess the reaction of the eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) to soil samples contaminated. Following, cultivation, growth, and harvest, the plant samples were prepared and maximum absorption rates of heavy metals were measured in both leaf and fruit. The estimated daily intake (EDI), the target hazard quotient (THQ), and the bio-concentration factor (BCF) were measured at various intervals during the growth period of the plant. Spectral analysis was also performed to assess the reaction of target crops to heavy metals. The results showed that in the second and third stages of plant growth, the THQ values were more than 1 for infected plants with Cd, Pb, and Zn. According to results from the BCF analysis, the absorption rate in Pb, during the growth stages was relatively high, in crops contaminated by Ni was around 1 in the second and third stages, and in plants contaminated by Cd was extremely high. All crops contaminated by heavy metals showed higher reflection rates in the 400–500 and 600–700 nm range. So, using electromagnetic waves during different stages of growth, the reaction of eggplant cultivated in soil samples contaminated by heavy metals is predictable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Prickle's absence/presence on various organs was controlled by only one dominant nuclear gene in eggplant. • The PRICKLE LOCUS (Pl) was fine mapped into an interval with 28.3 Kb on chromosome 6, which only contained three gene loci. • An auxin response factor SmARF18 (Smechr0602826.1) with a non-synonymous SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) was deduced to be the candidate gene encoded by Pl. • The variation of SmARF18 was verified that co-segregated with prickly phenotype in the F 2 population. Prickle is a sharp protrusion that covering plant and fruit calyxes of eggplant are considered undesirable agronomic traits, for they bring troubles and create additional costs for farmers. However, little is known about its regulatory genes and molecular mechanism of morphogenesis. In this study, two eggplant inbred lines, prickly '140' and prickleless '145' were applied to construct F 1 , BC 1 , and F 2 offspring populations. Genetic analysis results showed that prickle's absence/presence on various organs in eggplant was controlled by only one dominant nuclear gene. The PRICKLE LOCUS (Pl) was fine mapped into a candidate interval with 28.3 Kb on chromosome 6 ultimately by adopting bulked segregant analysis combined with genome walking strategy. An auxin response factor SmARF18 (Smechr0602826.1) was deduced to be a candidate gene encoded by Pl , which possesses a non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism co-segregating with prickle phenotype in F 2 population. The finding here could provide a basis to reveal the molecular regulatory mechanism of prickle morphogenesis in plants and breed prickle-free eggplant cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human health risks as a result of consuming pesticide residues in fresh vegetables have drawn serious attention to the scientific community, particularly in developing countries. This study analyzed country bean (Lablab purpureus L.) and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) for widely used neonicotinoid, synthetic pyrethroid, and dithiocarbamate pesticide residues in order to ensure food safety. The analyzed vegetables contained residues of acetamiprid and cypermethrin in 17% of bean and 13% of eggplant samples, respectively; among them, 3% of bean and 1% of eggplant samples had residues of acetamiprid that were above the maximum residue limits set by the European Union (EU-MRLs). None of the samples for either of the analyzed vegetables contained the residue of thiram and lambda-cyhalothrin. In contrast, 83% of bean and 87% of eggplant samples had no detectable pesticides. Thus, the findings were surprising considering the repeated and overuse of pesticides in vegetables in the investigated areas. However, this outcome supports the general claim of pesticide adulteration in terms of the active ingredients, which is another drawback to ensuring food safety. The non-cancer health risk assessment based on the acute health risk to consumer (aHI) and chronic hazard quotient (HQ) indicates that contaminated vegetables might pose a potential threat to children’s health and alarming for adults. This study reflects the overall scenario of pesticide residues in marketed vegetables of Barishal district of Bangladesh, which could help the consumers to bring awareness, and to take necessary actions by the pesticide suppliers and policymakers.

The present investigation aimed to study the influence of some solanaceous plant varieties of eggplant Solanum melongena L. (Blak king, Blak beauty, Rekarda, Taska, Anan and Polsar); pepper Capsicun annuun L. (Ayrad, Lamastar Hlo, Fire volcano, PTAH and Saidah) and tomato Lycopersicum esculentum Mill (Seren T97301, Taby T98270, Super magic, Nameb RFT671022, Kelel, Nour and VT 60788) to infestation with some piercing sucking pests and the effects of some chemical contents (protein, carbohydrate and pH values) on the infestation of aphid, leafhopper, whitefly and two spotted spider mite pests were also investigated. The obtained results showed pronounced differences in the population density of the tested pests. Eggplant varieties could be arranged descendingly according to the population density of pests as follows: Polsar, Anan, Taska, Rekarda, Blak beauty and Blak king; pepper varieties Saidah, PTAH, Fire volcano, Lamastar Hlo and Ayrad and tomato varieties VT60788, Nour, Kelel, Nameb RFT671022, Super magic, Taby T98270 and Seren T97301. Chemical analysis results showed an increase in protein and carbohydrate contents led to increase the mean number of aphid, leafhopper, whitefly and two spotted spider mite pests infesting these varieties, while the increase of pH values led to decrease the mean number of pests and rate of infestation. Increasing pests infestation led to a decrease in yield. Therefore, the most suitable plant variety must be included in any integrated pest management programs of any pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light is a key environmental factor affecting anthocyanin biosynthesis. Our previous study demonstrated that 'Lanshan Hexian' is a light-sensitive eggplant cultivar, but its regulatory mechanism is unknown. Here, delphinidin-3-[4-(cis-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnosyl-glucopyranoside]-5-glucopyranoside and delphinidin-3-[4-(trans-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnosyl-glucopyranoside]-5-glucopyranoside were identified as the main anthocyanin components in Lanshan Hexian by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Three time points of anthocyanin accumulation, including the start point (0 day), fastest point (5 days), and highest point (12 day), were investigated by using ribonucleic acid sequencing and iTRAQ technology. The corresponding correlation coefficients of differentially expressed genes, and differentially expressed proteins were 0.6936, 0.2332, and 0.6672. Anthocyanin biosynthesis was a significantly enriched pathway, and CHI, F3H, 3GT, 5 GT, and HY5 were regulated at both transcriptional and translational levels. Moreover, some transcription factors and photoreceptors may participate in light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis like the known transcription factors MYB113 and TT8. The transient expression assay indicated that SmMYB35, SmMYB44, and a SmMYB86 isoform might involve in the light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway. Finally, a regulatory model for light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant was constructed. Our work provides a new direction for the study of the molecular mechanisms of light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine if a simple UV spectral analysis method can be used as a screening tool to estimate the amount of phenolic acid and the antioxidant capacity of eggplant pulp extracts. Calibration curves for different concentrations of 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid standards were developed using UV spectral data, HPLC analysis, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Seven different freeze-dried eggplant pulp samples belonging to different cultivars or grown under different environmental conditions along with single peel sample were selected as model substrates for this study. HPLC results, simple UV spectral scan data, and quantification of antioxidant capacity by FRAP assay in seven eggplant pulp extracts showed a strong correlation (R2 > 0.9) between the three methods. These results suggest that the single absorption reading or a simple UV spectral scan can be used to estimate the concentration of phenolic acids and the antioxidant capacity in eggplant pulp extracts without peels. This screening tool can be potentially used to identify cultivars and growing conditions that influence phenolic acid content in eggplant samples.

To make clear the heat tolerance and resistance to bacterial wilt of eggplant germplasm resources, screening of specific resistance materials and provide a basis for their utilizations, 8 inbred lines and 13 accessions of eggplant germplasm from Southeast Asia were identified and evaluated for heat tolerance by heat-injury index and relative conductivity and resistance against bacterial wilt by inoculated to seedlings by root soaking. The results showed that, two of the eggplant from Southeast Asia had strong heat tolerance, and all the thirteen accessions of eggplant germplasms from South Asia were with resistance to bacterial wilt, among them eight had high resistance (HR), and five had resistance (R). We found that some of the germplasm had strong heat tolerance and high resistance to bacterial wilt,and there was correlation among them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to determine if a simple UV spectral analysis method can be used as a screening tool to estimate the amount of phenolic acid and the antioxidant capacity of eggplant pulp extracts. Calibration curves for different concentrations of 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid standards were developed using UV spectral data, HPLC analysis, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Seven different freeze-dried eggplant pulp samples belonging to different cultivars or grown under different environmental conditions along with single peel sample were selected as model substrates for this study. HPLC results, simple UV spectral scan data, and quantification of antioxidant capacity by FRAP assay in seven eggplant pulp extracts showed a strong correlation (R 2 >0.9) between the three methods. These results suggest that the single absorption reading or a simple UV spectral scan can be used to estimate the concentration of phenolic acids and the antioxidant capacity in eggplant pulp extracts without peels. This screening tool can be potentially used to identify cultivars and growing conditions that influence phenolic acid content in eggplant samples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A suitable application of the deep seawater for high quality eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) production was examined on vegetative growth and fruit yield with special reference to qualities of fruits. Mineral controlled deep sea water was prepared by electrodialyzing deep sea water with a selective membrane cartridge for the exchange of monovalent ions. Eggplant plants variety 'Ryoma' were grown in the NFT system with the applications of 2% mineral controlled deep sea water to the standard nutrient solution (mineral controlled deep sea water treatment-MDST) under greenhouse condition with four replications. With the treatment eggplant had larger vegetative growth rate than with the control. Furthermore, MDST showed that total fruit yield and marketable fruit yield was 14% and 23% higher than the control. In this study, a new methodology to produce high quality eggplants enriched in sugar, minerals, and dry matter was demonstrated by applying the natural resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Consumer awareness, pesticide and fertiliser contaminations, and environmental concerns have resulted in significant demand for organically grown farm products. The present study evaluates the influence that organic and conventional farming practices exert on the total phenolic content in eggplant samples from two cultivars, Blackbell (American eggplant) and Millionaire (Japanese eggplant), grown by conventional and organic farming practices with similar climatic conditions. In addition, plant-to-plant variation in phenolic content was determined from eight eggplant samples collected from different plants grown at various field positions. Samples were separately assayed for phenolic content by the two independent procedures, HPLC/LC–MS and Folin–Ciocalteu assay. The results of the HPLC analysis showed significant plant-to-plant variation (% RSD ranged from 22% to 48%) in 5-caffeoylqunic acid content (the most abundant phenolic acid) in eight eggplant samples collected from eight different plants belonging to the same cultivar and grown under similar conditions. The cv. Millionaire showed a higher total phenolic content compared to the Blackbell cultivar. We did not observe significant consistent trend in the phenolic content of eggplant samples grown with organic and conventional farming practices with both eggplant cultivars. We, however, observed a strong correlation (R 2 =0.87) between total phenolic content as assayed by Folin–Ciocalteu assay and 5-caffeoylqunic acid, a major phenolic acid in eggplant extract. This study concludes that multiple repetitive analyses of plant products collected from different plants grown over various time periods (seasons) at different locations should always be carried to unambiguously prove the impact of growing conditions on phenolic content or antioxidant activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The influence of organic and conventional farming practices on the phenolic content in eggplant samples belonging to two cultivars, Blackbell (American eggplant) and Millionaire (Japanese eggplant) grown under similar environmental conditions was evaluated. Phytochemical investigation of the eggplant extracts showed that N-caffeoylputrescine, 5-caffeoylquinic acid, and 3-acetyl-5-caffeoylquinic acid made up the bulk of total eggplant phenolics. In addition, this is the first report on identification of trace quantities of three additional flavonols, namely, quercetin-3-glucoside, quercetin-3-rhamnoside, and myricetin-3-galactoside in freeze-dried eggplant pulp. The phenolic content of the conventionally grown Blackbell variety was marginally higher or equal to those grown organically. However, the phenolic content of the Millionaire organic variety was much greater than the conventionally grown samples. Eggplant extract inhibition of cupric-ion mediated oxidation of low-density lipoproteins was highly correlated with the content of 5-caffeolquinic acid (R 2 =0.9124), the most abundant phenolic acid identified. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Organic vegetable production is particularly affected by weed pressure and mechanical weeding is the major tactic implemented by growers to keep weeds under economic thresholds. Living mulch (LM) has been shown to provide several environmental services; however, LM management is required to avoid competition between service crops and cash crops. The aim of this trial was to evaluate two innovative LM-based management systems: a system that provided LM growth regulation by means of flaming (LM-FL) and a system where the LM was regularly mowed by an autonomous mower (LM-AM), both compared with a control without LM and based on standard tillage operations (TILL). The three management systems were evaluated in terms of crop production, weed control, and energy consumption on a 2 yr organic crop rotation of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var botrytis) and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). LM-AM produced an acceptable fresh marketable yield for both vegetable crops. Moreover, the weed dry biomass obtained in LM-AM-managed plots was lower compared to the LM-FL plots and ranged approximately from 200 to 300 kg ha−1. Furthermore, LM-AM management resulted in lower energy consumption (−2330 kWh ha−1 with respect to the TILL system and −7225 kWh ha−1 with respect to the LM-FL system). The results of this trial suggest that autonomous mowers have a great potential to improve LM management and help with implementing sustainable organic vegetable systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human health risks as a result of consuming pesticide residues in fresh vegetables have drawn serious attention to the scientific community, particularly in developing countries. This study analyzed country bean (Lablab purpureus L.) and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) for widely used neonicotinoid, synthetic pyrethroid, and dithiocarbamate pesticide residues in order to ensure food safety. The analyzed vegetables contained residues of acetamiprid and cypermethrin in 17% of bean and 13% of eggplant samples, respectively; among them, 3% of bean and 1% of eggplant samples had residues of acetamiprid that were above the maximum residue limits set by the European Union (EU-MRLs). None of the samples for either of the analyzed vegetables contained the residue of thiram and lambda-cyhalothrin. In contrast, 83% of bean and 87% of eggplant samples had no detectable pesticides. Thus, the findings were surprising considering the repeated and overuse of pesticides in vegetables in the investigated areas. However, this outcome supports the general claim of pesticide adulteration in terms of the active ingredients, which is another drawback to ensuring food safety. The non-cancer health risk assessment based on the acute health risk to consumer (aHI) and chronic hazard quotient (HQ) indicates that contaminated vegetables might pose a potential threat to children's health and alarming for adults. This study reflects the overall scenario of pesticide residues in marketed vegetables of Barishal district of Bangladesh, which could help the consumers to bring awareness, and to take necessary actions by the pesticide suppliers and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The weighted gene co-expression network for light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant was constructed. • The reliability of the weighted gene co-expression network was verified. • Hub gene SmWRKY44 positively regulate eggplant anthocyanin biosynthesis. • SmWRKY44 can interact with SmMYB1, they can jointly promote the biosynthesis of anthocyanins. Eggplant is rich in anthocyanins, which are thought to be highly beneficial for human health. There is no study on weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant. Here, transcriptome data of 33 eggplant pericarp samples treated with light were used for WGCNA to identify significant modules. Total 13000 DEGs and 12 modules were identified, and the most significant module was associated with the secondary metabolites pathways. In addition, the hub gene SmWRKY44 with high connectivity was selected and its function was verified. The expression of SmWRKY44 showed a significant correlation with anthocyanin accumulation in the eggplant peels, leaves, and flowers. SmWRKY44-OE Arabidopsis significantly increased the accumulation of anthocyanins. Yeast two-hybrid and BiFC assays showed that SmWRKY44 could interact with SmMYB1, and it was also found that they could jointly promote the biosynthesis of anthocyanins in eggplant leaves through transient expression analysis. Our work provides a new direction for studying the molecular mechanism of light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eggplant is rich in anthocyanins, which are thought to be highly beneficial for human health. It has been reported that blue light inhibitors of cryptochromes (BICs) act as negative regulators in light signal transduction, but little is known about their role in anthocyanin biosynthesis. In this study, yeast one-hybrid analysis showed that SmBICs could bind to the promoter of SmCHS, indicating that they could directly participate in eggplant anthocyanin biosynthesis. In SmBICs-silenced eggplants, more anthocyanins were accumulated, while SmBIC1-overexpression (OE) and SmBIC2-OE Arabidopsis and eggplants synthesized less anthocyanin. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction also revealed that the anthocyanin structural genes, which were downregulated in SmBIC1-OE and SmBIC2-OE lines, were upregulated in SmBICs-silenced eggplants. In addition, transcriptome analysis further confirmed that differentially expressed genes of SmBICs-OE plants were enriched mainly in the pathways related to anthocyanin biosynthesis and the key transcription factors and structural genes for anthocyanin biosynthesis, such as SmMYB1, SmTT8, SmHY5, SmCHS, SmCHI, SmDFR and SmANS, were suppressed significantly. Finally, bimolecular fluorescence complementation and blue-light-dependent degradation assay suggested that SmBICs interacted with photo-excited SmCRY2 to inhibit its photoreaction, thereby inhibiting the expression of genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis and reducing anthocyanin accumulation. Collectively, our study suggests that SmBICs repress anthocyanin biosynthesis by inhibiting photoactivation of SmCRY2. This study provides a new working model for anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant., (© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Background: Light is a key environmental factor in regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis. Through a large number of bagging screenings, we obtained non-photosensitive eggplants that still have decent amount of anthocyanin synthesized after bagging. In the present study, transcriptome was made to explore the molecular mechanism of dark-regulated anthocyanin synthesis in non-photosensitive eggplant. Results: The transcriptome of the pericarp at 0 h, 0.5 h, 4 h, and 8 h after bag removal were sequenced and analyzed. Comparison of the sequencing data with those of photosensitive eggplant for the same time period showed that anthocyanin synthesis genes had different expression trends. Based on the expression trends of the structural genes, it was discovered that 22 transcription factors and 4 light signal transduction elements may be involved in the anthocyanin synthesis in two types of eggplants. Through transcription factor target gene prediction and yeast one-hybrid assay, SmBIM1, SmAP2, SmHD, SmMYB94, SmMYB19, SmTT8, SmYABBY, SmTTG2, and SmMYC2 were identified to be directly or indirectly bound to the promoter of the structural gene SmCHS. These results indicate that the identified 9 genes participated in the anthocyanin synthesis in eggplant peel and formed a network of interactions among themselves. Conclusions: Based on the comparative transcription, the identified 22 transcription factors and 4 light signal transduction elements may act as the key factors in dark regulated anthocyanin synthesis in non-photosensitive eggplant. The results provided a step stone for further analysis of the molecular mechanism of dark-regulated anthocyanin synthesis in non-photosensitive eggplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soil salinization is one of the most crucial abiotic stresses that limit the growth and production of eggplant. The existing researches in eggplant were mostly focused on salt-induced morphological, biochemical and physiological changes, with only limited works centered on salt-response genes in eggplant at the transcriptomic level. Results: Our preliminary work found that Zhusiqie (No.118) is salt-tolerant and Hongqie (No.30) is salt-sensitive. Consequently, they were re-named as ST118 and SS30, respectively. ST118 showed less damaged on growth and higher K+/Na+ ratios in leaves than SS30. Comparative-transcriptome analysis was used as a powerful approach to understand the salt-response mechanisms in the leaves and roots of SS30 and ST118. And it revealed that genotype-specific and organ-specific manners exist in eggplant in response to salt stress. Strikingly, the genotype-specific differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in ST118 were considered crucial to its higher salt-tolerance, because the expression patterns of common DEGs in the leaves/roots of the two eggplant genotypes were almost the same. Among them, some transcription factors have been reported to be in response to elevated external salinity, including the members of C2C2-CO-like, WRKY, MYB and NAC family. In addition, the AKT1, KAT1 and SOS1 were up-regulated only in the leaves of ST118. Furthermore, the complementation assays demonstrated that the salt-tolerances of both yeast and Arabidopsis akt1 mutants were enhanced by heterologous expression of SmAKT1. Conclusion: The comparative-transcriptome analysis indicated that the salt-tolerance can be increased by higher transcript level of some genotype-specific genes. This work revealed that eggplants seem to be more inclined to absorb K+ rather than to exclude Na+ under salt stress conditions because seven K+ transporters were significantly up-regulated, while only one Na+ transporter was similarly regulated. Finally, the complementation assays of SmAKT1, which is genotype-specific up-regulated in ST118, suggest that the other TFs and K+ transport genes were worthy of future investigation for their functions in salinity tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]