Comprehensive analysis of physiological traits, transcriptome, and rhizosphere microbial communities in Phyllostachys violascens cultivars

Lei bamboo (Phyllostachys violascens) cultivars, formed through long-term natural and artificial breeding, display a wide range of traits. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms of how different Lei bamboo cultivars adapt to the environment is currently unclear. This study explores the differences in growth phenotypes, physiological traits, transcriptomic profiles, and rhizosphere microbial communities of four Lei bamboo cultivars. Significant physiological differences were observed in leaf soluble sugar, total nitrogen content, bamboo shoot soluble protein, and free amino acid levels among the cultivars. Transcriptomic analysis identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in key metabolic pathways, such as glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and starch/sucrose metabolism, which regulate carbohydrate metabolism in Lei bamboo. Rhizosphere microbial communities showed distinct bacterial and fungal structures and functional differences, with Anhui Lei bamboo exhibiting higher fungal richness and diversity. The interaction between Trichoderma and plant glycolysis and energy metabolism genes FBA and PDCA may enhance nitrogen absorption and assimilation in the plant leaves. Additionally, the accumulation of free amino acids in bamboo shoots could be regulated by gene expression driven by the WRKY70 transcription factor, as well as by the influence of Chaetomium. This study not only provides deeper insights into plant-microbe interaction mechanisms but also establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework that integrates genetics, physiology, and microbiology for Lei bamboo. These findings offer a theoretical basis for molecular marker-assisted breeding, the development of rhizosphere probiotic resources, and precision cultivation management of Lei bamboo.