Transcriptome-Wide Identification and Expression Profiling Analysis of Chrysanthemum Trihelix Transcription Factors

Area of Science:

• Plant molecular biology
• Genomics
• Transcription factors

Background:

• Trihelix transcription factors (helix-loop-helix-loop-helix) bind GT motifs, regulating light-responsive plant processes.
• Understanding trihelix gene family functions is crucial for plant development and stress adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the trihelix gene family in chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium).
• To investigate the phylogenetic relationships, gene expression, and regulatory mechanisms of chrysanthemum trihelix genes.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptomic data analysis for gene isolation and amplification.
• Phylogenetic analysis to identify orthologous and paralogous proteins.
• MEME suite for conserved motif analysis.
• Bioinformatic analysis for miRNA targeting.
• Quantitative PCR (qPCR) for gene expression analysis.

Main Results:

• 20 distinct trihelix gene sequences were identified and classified into four phylogenetic groups.
• Phylogenetic analysis revealed orthologous and paralogous relationships with Arabidopsis.
• Bioinformatic analysis indicated miRNA targeting for 16 chrysanthemum trihelix genes (CmTHs), with miR414 targeting nine.
• qPCR showed high expression of most CmTH genes in inflorescences and their response to phytohormone treatments and abiotic stresses.

Conclusions:

• This study provides a comprehensive characterization of the chrysanthemum trihelix gene family.
• The findings enhance understanding of trihelix gene functions in response to hormonal stimuli and abiotic stress in plants.
• The identified gene family provides a basis for further functional studies in chrysanthemum and related species.