Genome-Wide Identification, Phylogenetic, and Expression Analysis of Jasmonate ZIM-Domain Gene Family in L.

JASMONATE ZIM domain (JAZ) proteins, inhibitors of the jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathway, are identified in different plants, such as rice and . These proteins are crucial for growth, development, and abiotic stress responses. However, limited information is available regarding the family in alfalfa. This study identified 11 genes () in the "Zhongmu No.1" reference genome of alfalfa. The physical and chemical properties, chromosome localization, phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, -acting elements, and collinearity of the 11 genes were subsequently analyzed. Tissue-specific analysis revealed distinct functions of different genes in growth and development. The expression patterns of genes under salt stress conditions were validated using qRT-PCR. All genes responded to salt stress, with varying levels of upregulation over time, highlighting their role in stress responses. Furthermore, heterogeneous expression of in resulted in significantly lower seed germination and survival rates in OE-2 and OE-4 compared to the WT under 150 mM NaCl treatment. This study establishes a foundation for further exploration of the function of the family and provides significant insights into the genetic improvement of alfalfa.