Rye, Secale cereale L., is an important cereal crop that has received increased attention due to its wide
natural variety, including anthocyanin pigmentation of different organs and tissues. Flavonoids, including anthocyanins,
perform a set of important functions in plants and are widely used by humans. However, genetic
control of the biosynthesis of flavonoids in rye is not yet well understood. We have found the evidence that Vs
(Violet seed) gene controlling purple anthocyanin pigmentation of caryopsis codes MYC family protein. It is
known that flavonoid biosynthesis in plants is regulated by MYC, MYB and WDR transcription regulators. We
have analyzed five alleles of Vs differ in their pigmentation phenotype. For better understanding of this gene
properties and traits associated with it we have performed the study of 13 closely related transcriptionally active
MYC coding genes of rye. Thus, we have firstly described the gene of MYC transcription factor regulating
flavonoid biosynthesis, Vs, and have compared it with other rye MYC family genes.
This work was supported by the Government of the Russian Federation in accordance with agreement
No. 075-15-2022-322 date 22.04.2022.