Functional Identification Reveals That TaTGA16-2D Promotes Drought and Heat Tolerance.

The TGACG motif-binding factor (TGA) family is an important group of basic region/leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factors in plants, playing crucial roles in plant development and stress responses. This study conducted a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the TGA transcription factor (TF) family in common wheat ( L.). A total of 48 wheat were identified and classified into four subgroups. Collinearity analysis of the between wheat and other species identified multiple duplicated gene pairs and highlighted the presence of highly conserved in wheat. Whole-genome and segmental duplications were identified as the primary drivers of expansion. Expression pattern analysis indicated that are involved in plant development and responses to abiotic stresses, including drought, heat, and cold treatment. Among these, was significantly upregulated under both drought and heat stresses, showing more than a five-fold increase in expression. Subcellular localization confirmed its nucleus localization. Functional validation through ectopic expression in demonstrated that transgenic lines overexpressing exhibited significantly improved stress tolerance. Under heat stress, the survival rates of transgenic lines exceeded 34%, compared to less than 18% in wild-type plants. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the evolution and functional roles of and identifies as a promising candidate to enhance abiotic stress tolerance in wheat via molecular breeding.