The team compared gene expression levels in a high-latex production strain of Hevea brasiliensis (RRIM 901) and a disease resistant strain (PB 350). By combining these data with EST sequences, the expression of 23,790 genes was confirmed and the annotation of 17,201 genes was updated to identify about 9,500 transcription initiation points. The results led to the elucidation of the mechanism of latex production control by transcription factors and will aid in the development of improved plants using synthetic biology.

RIKEN news release, February 2, 2017