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CORESTA Meeting, Agronomy/Phytopathology, 2021, Online, AP 34

Dynamics of molecular leaf senescence processes occurring during curing of Virginia tobacco cultivar K326

CHEVAL C.; BATTEY J.; SIERRO N.; DULIZE R.; BORNAND D.; SIMICEVIC J.; TITZ B.; GUY P.A.; LASZLO C.; HAIDUC A.; DOSSIN E.; BOVET L.; IVANOV N.; GOEPFERT S.
PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products SA, Neuchâtel, Switzerland

Plant senescence is the process of aging. It is influenced primarily by genetics and developmental processes as well as environmental cues. However, because of their significant complexity, the molecular networks by which genetics and the environment control senescence remain elusive.

It is fundamental to understand the molecular mechanisms that define leaf senescence during leaf ripening and curing, which are important for the quality of tobacco leaves.

Here, we examine the senescence process by using a combination of transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics approaches. Samples were collected over time and at different leaf positions during curing of K326 Virginia tobacco.

The integration of different techniques allowed us to resolve the spatiotemporal dynamics of the molecular networks responsible for the modifications that occur during curing. The fundamental knowledge resulting from this work will help create a framework from which new strategies can be implemented for improving the quality traits of future tobacco products.