Genome-Wide Analyses of Family Genes and Their Expression Profiles under Drought Stress in Rose ().

CCHC-type zinc finger proteins (CCHC-ZFPs), ubiquitous across plant species, are integral to their growth, development, hormonal regulation, and stress adaptation. Roses ( sp.), as one of the most significant and extensively cultivated ornamentals, account for more than 30% of the global cut-flower market. Despite its significance, the gene family in roses ( sp.) remains unexplored. This investigation identified and categorized 41 gene members located on seven chromosomes of rose into 14 subfamilies through motif distribution and phylogenetic analyses involving ten additional plant species, including , , , and others. This study revealed that dispersed duplication likely plays a crucial role in the diversification of the genes, with the Ka/Ks ratio suggesting a history of strong purifying selection. Promoter analysis highlighted a rich presence of cis-acting regulatory elements linked to both abiotic and biotic stress responses. Differential expression analysis under drought conditions grouped the 41 gene members into five distinct clusters, with those in group 4 exhibiting pronounced regulation in roots and leaves under severe drought. Furthermore, virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of the member from group 4 compromised drought resilience in rose foliage. This comprehensive analysis lays the groundwork for further investigations into the functional dynamics of the gene family in rose physiology and stress responses.