Dynamic transcriptome analysis of root nitrate starvation and re-supply provides insights into nitrogen metabolism in pear (Pyrus bretschneideri).

•Pear roots recovered from nitrate starvation within 24 h after re-supplying nitrate.•Nitrate reductase in pear root was activated in response to nitrate within 6 h.•Pbr040385 and Pbr005047 down-regulated by nitrate starvation act in nitrate reduction and carbon assimilation pathways.