Material for developmental studies
Buds of Disocactus eichlamii came from the epiphytic cactus collection at the UNAM Botanical Garden in Mexico. Buds measuring 1 cm and 5 cm were sampled, with the larger buds just before anthesis. They were compared with buds of D. speciosus. [Rosas-Reinhold et al. 2026, pp.1022–1024]
Tepal cells
Cells of the two species were similar in size in the smallest buds. Later development in D. speciosus involved a longer period of cell proliferation and expansion in the tepals. Inner and outer tepals, epidermal surfaces and tissues in sections were compared separately. [Rosas-Reinhold et al. 2026, pp.1025–1029, Fig.3–4]
Genes associated with growth
Transcriptomes revealed differences in the expression of homologues of genes involved in organ-size regulation. These included BIG BROTHER, BIG PETALp and NAC100. The results identify candidates for functional investigation and remain linked to the two sampled stages of bud development. [Rosas-Reinhold et al. 2026, pp.1029–1033]