Pigment accumulation and transcription of LhMYB12 and anthocyanin biosynthesis genes during flower development in the Asiatic hybrid lily (Lilium spp.).

Anthocyanin biosynthesis is often regulated by MYB transcription factors that are classified into AN2 and C1 subgroups. The AN2 subgroup regulates the late genes in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway of eudicots, whereas the C1 subgroup controls both early and late genes in monocots. Anthocyanin is a major pigment in Asiatic hybrid lilies (Lilium spp.

Two R2R3-MYB genes, homologs of Petunia AN2, regulate anthocyanin biosyntheses in flower Tepals, tepal spots and leaves of asiatic hybrid lily.

Anthocyanins are secondary metabolites that contribute to colors of flowers, fruits and leaves. Asiatic hybrid lily (Lilium spp.) accumulates cyanidin anthocyanins in flower tepals, tepal spots and leaves of juvenile shoots.