Comprehensive Expression Analysis of the WRKY Gene Family in under Drought and Waterlogging Stresses.

In response to biotic and abiotic stresses, the WRKY gene family plays a crucial role in plant growth and development. This study focused on and involved genome-wide identification of WRKY gene family members, clarification of their molecular evolutionary characteristics, and comprehensive mapping of their expression profiles under diverse abiotic stress conditions. A total of 60 WRKY gene family members were identified, and their phylogenetic classification revealed three distinct groups. A conserved motif analysis underscored the significant conservation of motif 1 and motif 2 among the majority of proteins, with proteins within the same class sharing analogous gene structures. Furthermore, an examination of cis-acting elements and protein interaction networks revealed several genes implicated in abiotic stress responses in . Transcriptomic data were utilized to analyze the expression patterns of WRKY family members under drought and waterlogged conditions, with subsequent validation by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) experiments. Notably, exhibited significant expression modulation under drought stress; responded prominently to waterlogging stress; and , , and demonstrated altered expression under both drought and waterlogging stresses. This study revealed the candidate genes that potentially play a pivotal role in enhancing abiotic stress resilience in . The findings have provided valuable insights and knowledge that can guide further research aimed at understanding and addressing the impacts of abiotic stress within this species.