Genome-wide analysis of the gene family and the role of in regulating flowering in loquat ().

The WUSCHEL (WUS)-related homeobox () gene family plays a crucial role in stem cell maintenance, apical meristem formation, embryonic development, and various other developmental processes. However, the identification and function of genes have not been reported in perennial loquat. In this study, 18 genes were identified in the loquat genome. Chromosomal localization analysis showed that 18 genes were located on 12 of 17 chromosomes. Gene structure analysis showed that all genes contain introns, of which 11 genes contain untranslated regions. There are 8 pairs of segmental duplication genes and 0 pairs of tandem duplication genes in the loquat family, suggesting that segmental duplications might be the main reason for the expansion of the loquat family. A transcription factor gene named was isolated from loquat. The EjWUSa protein was localized in the nucleus. Protein interactions between EjWUSa with EjWUSa and EjSTM were verified. Compared with wild-type , the transgenic showed early flowering. Our study provides an important basis for further research on the function of genes and facilitates the molecular breeding of loquat early-flowering varieties.