Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the DREB gene family in foxtail millet (Setaria Italica L.).

BACKGROUND

Dehydration response element binding factors (DREBs) are a family of plant-specific transcription factors that regulate plant responses.

RESULTS

In this study, members of the SiDREB gene family were identified and analyzed in terms of their physicochemical properties, phylogeny, and structure of the encoded proteins. The expression patterns of the DREB transcription factors in foxtail millet under stress were analysed by combining the qRT-PCR data for foxtail millet after exposure to low temperature, abscisic acid (ABA), and osmotic stress (20% PEG 6000). There were 56 SiDREB genes, which were divided into six subgroups, that were located on nine chromosomes of foxtail millet. Chromosomal localization showed that the SiDREB genes were unevenly distributed across nine foxtail millet chromosomes. Furthermore, qRT‒PCR experiments revealed that 19 SiDREB genes play a role in the response to abiotic stress and ABA.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study lay a foundation for further research on the functions of the DREB genes in foxtail millet and will be beneficial foe the genetic improvement of this species.