Genome-wide identification of the E-class gene family in wheat: evolution, expression, and interaction.

INTRODUCTION

Wheat ( L.) is among themost important crop worldwide. Given a growing population and changing climate, enhancing wheat yield is of great importance. Yield is closely associated with flower and spike development, and E-class genes play important roles in the flower and kernel development of plants. Currently, the absence of systematic analysis on the E gene family hinders our comprehension of their roles in plant growth and development.

METHODS

Identify E-class genes based on homologous sequence searches. Analyze the identified E-class genes through a series of gene family analyses. Determine the expression levels of wheat E-class genes by searching public databases. Validate the functions of these genes by transforming them into . Finally, determine the interactions between the genes through yeast two-hybrid experiments.

RESULTS

Fifteen E-class genes (TaEs) were identified in common wheat. Nine E-class genes were detected in five ancestral/closely related species, including one in (AtE), one in (TuEs), two in (TtEs), two in (TdEs), and three in (TsEs). The 24 E-class genes were classified into three subgroups using a phylogenetic approach. All genes were highly expressed in spikes, and most were only highly expressed at the floret meristem stage. The effects of on flowering and growth cycles were confirmed in homologous mutants and transgenic . The E-class genes were able to regulate the growth cycle of . Finally, we confirmed the interactions between and other wheat E-class genes based on yeast two-hybrid assays.

DISCUSSION

Our findings provide information regarding the E-class genes in wheat and will potentially promote the application of these genes in wheat improvement.