VcMYB30 enhances wax production and maintains fruit quality by regulating cuticular wax biosynthesis genes

The removal of epicuticular wax in blueberries heightened the decline in fruit storage quality and aging, emphasizing its pivotal role as a protective shield against external stressors. Examining wax metabolism-associated genes during fruit development and storage revealed consistent expression patterns in VcKCS1, VcKCS11, VcLACS8, VcKCR1, and the R2R3 MYB transcription factor, VcMYB30, mirroring wax content variations. VcMYB30, localized in the nucleus and displaying transactivation capability through dual-luciferase reporter assay (DLR), further investigations via electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and transient expression analysis in N. benthamiana leaves confirmed its direct binding to the promoters of four wax genes: VcKCS1, VcKCS11, VcLACS8, and VcKCR1. These findings strongly suggest a positive influence of VcMYB30 on cuticular wax biosynthesis in blueberries, offering a fresh perspective on its role in enhancing wax production and contributing significantly to maintaining fruit quality during storage.