cDNA cloning and functional characterization of ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE 3 orthologs from Oncidium Gower Ramsey involved in flower cutting and pollinia cap dislodgement

► The cDNAs of two EIN3-like proteins (OgEIL1, OgEIL2) were cloned in Oncidium. ► OgEIL1 and OgEIL2 genes differed in the spatial and temporal expression patterns. ► Both of the genes responded differentially to flower cutting and pollinia de-capping. ► Both OgEIL1 and OgEIL2 are implicated in Oncidium flower senescence. ► Both of the genes may be targeted by RNAi strategy to increase vase life in Oncidium.