Physiological and molecular insights into alternate bearing in mango using next-generation sequencing approaches.

This article investigates the physiological, biochemical, and molecular differences underlying the regular versus alternate bearing habits in two mango (Mangifera indica) varieties from India: the regular bearer Totapuri and the alternate bearer Bombay Green. Through comparative analyses of carbohydrate fractions, protein content, macro- and micronutrient accumulation, and RNA-sequencing of buds and flowers, the study identifies significant variations in sugar transport, nutrient storage, and gene expression related to metabolic, hormonal, and flowering pathways. Notably, Totapuri exhibited higher sugar and protein content in buds, stronger nutrient sink strength, and up-regulation of genes associated with alternate bearing, hormone signaling, and carbohydrate metabolism, supported by validation via quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). The identification of 202 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 32 genes linked to alternate bearing provides potential molecular markers for breeding programs aimed at improving mango productivity by mitigating alternate bearing.