Analysis of CNGC Family Members in Citrus clementina (Hort. ex Tan.) by a Genome-Wide Approach

The study focuses on the Cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels (CNGCs) proteins in citrus, aiming to investigate their potential roles. A total of 33 CcCNGC proteins were identified and characterized in Citrus clementina using a genome-wide method. The study revealed that these proteins share a conserved CNGC domain structurally but exhibit significant differences in their primary sequence and motif composition. Phylogenetic analysis classified the CcCNGC proteins into 13 subgroups. The cis-elements present in all CcCNGCs promoters were identified and classified, and the number of elements was determined. The results suggested that these genes play important roles in citrus growth and development, as well as in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Gene expression analysis further supported these findings, demonstrating that CNGC genes were responsive to various plant hormones and Phytophthora nicotianae infection, which causes citrus foot rot. Overall, the study indicated that members of the CcCNGC gene family exhibit structural and functional diversity. Further research is needed to validate the specific functions of individual family members and their roles in citrus physiology and response to stress conditions.