Unraveling the Rarity and Evolution of Blue Flower Colouration through Phylogenetics

Laura Fischer ¹, David Wulsdorf ¹

Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Institute of Plant Biology & BRICS, TU Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany; SynBio2024-Team, Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Institute of Plant Biology & BRICS, TU Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany ¹

Flavonoids, renowned for their antioxidant properties, are a focal point of contemporary research. While anthocyanins producing red hues have been extensively studied, the exploration of blue flower colouration remains incomplete. This rare and captivating trait is an enigma in the plant kingdom, arising from intricate biochemical pathways and genetic innovations. The SynBio2024-Team of TU Braunschweig is committed to investigating the phylogenetic origins and mechanisms underlying blue flower colouration, employing a systematic framework to elucidate its evolutionary and genetic basis. Our research focuses on assembling a comprehensive phylogenetic tree of blue-flowering species to reveal their evolutionary relationships and explore correlations between lineage-specific traits and colouration mechanisms. The blue cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) serves as a detailed case study for blue colour complexation, providing insights into the genetic and biochemical pathways responsible for this unique hue. The formation of blue pigment complexes will be further validated by heterologous transformation into Arabidopsis thaliana, enabling functional analysis of the identified genes. This phylogenetic approach systematically integrates the study of coloration mechanisms with evolutionary history, shedding light on the rarity of blue pigmentation and its underlying processes. Beyond deepening our understanding of floral diversity, this research explores the potential of blue flower colouration as a biomarker for disease detection or its application in engineering ornamental plants, bridging fundamental science and practical innovation.

Main author career stage: Bachelor student

Contribution type: Poster

First choice session: 1. Systematics, phylogenetics, biogeography and evolution

Second choice session: 1. Systematics, phylogenetics, biogeography and evolution