Analysis on Expression of Lycopene Cyclase Gene in Sichuan and Henan Flue-cured Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) Leaves in Budding Stage

Abstract：To study the molecular mechanism of the differences in carotenoids between tobacco leaves in Sichuan and Henan, it is primary to reveal that the same species of tobacco will produce different style-type aroma in Sichuan and Henan. Expression of lycopene cyclase gene (Lyc-β) of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) plants in budding stage was measured by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and Northern blotting in Sichuan and Henan Provinces. Carotenoids contents of tobacco in budding stage were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results showed that the expression of Lyc-β in Sichuan leaves was higher than that in Henan and the carotenoids contents in Sichuan leaves were significantly higher than those in Henan.