LrMYB114-LrbHLH94 module plays a crucial role in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in Lycoris petals

Lycoris are well-known bulbous ornamental plants with both ornamental and economic value, displaying diverse floral traits, particularly an extensive array of petal colors. The red pigmentation of Lycoris petals is predominantly attributed to anthocyanin accumulation. However, the underlying regulatory mechanism of anthocyanin biosynthesis in Lycoris remains elusive. In this study, we conducted a metabolomic analysis that revealed both the total anthocyanin content and the relative abundance of individual anthocyanin species are critical contributors of the color variation observed between white- and red-petaled cultivars. Integrating transcriptomic data with metabolic profiles, we identified a gene module central to anthocyanin biosynthesis, with LrMYB114 emerging as a key transcriptional activator. Functional validation through overexpression and silencing of LrMYB114 in Lycoris petal confirmed its essential role in regulating total anthocyanin, cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside (Cy3Sa), and pelargonidin-3-O-sambubioside (Pg3Sam) levels. Furthermore, it was found that LrMYB114 could interact with the bHLH transcription factor LrbHLH94 to form an LrMYB114–LrbHLH94 complex that activated anthocyanin biosynthetic genes, essential for pigment accumulation in Lycoris petals. Futhermore, LrMYB114–LrbHLH94 complex upregulates transcription of the anthocyanin biosynthetic gene LrDFR1 , LrDFR3 , and LrPAL , leading to enhanced Cy3Sa and Pg3Sam accumulation. These findings highlight the LrMYB114–LrbHLH94 regulatory module as a critical determinant of petal coloration, offering potential avenues for improving petal quality through genetic manipulation. • Cyanidin and pelargonidin pigments play significant roles in color variation of Lycoris petals. • Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were performed to elucidate Lycoris flower coloration. • LrMYB114 promoted the expression of anthocyanin-related genes and anthocyanin accumulation. • LrbHLH94 interacted with LrMYB114 to enhance anthocyanin biosynthesis.