Comprehensive analysis of Dof transcription factors in species and functional characterization of in the accumulation of water-soluble polysaccharides.

INTRODUCTION

is a multi-purpose medicinal orchid that grows on the edge of high-altitude cliffs. The content of water-soluble polysaccharides (WSPs), which primarily play a pharmacological role, is the main criterion for evaluating the quality of orchid. Therefore, it is necessary to study the regulatory manner involved in the accumulation of WSPs.

METHODS

were treated with methyl jasmonate (MeJA), and WSPs content was measured at different time points to assess the dynamic accumulation pattern. To clarify the role of one finger (Dof) family genes in the MeJA-mediated WSP metabolic pathway, a bioinformatics analysis identified Dof members in , and . Based on expression patterns and co-expression analysis, a regulatory factor, was identified.

RESULTS

In this study, the elicitation of by methyl jasmonate (MeJA) increased WSP production, which was further amplified by extending the treatment period. Analysis of transcriptomic data revealed that members of the DNA-binding with Dof gene family members accounted for 4% of all differentially expressed genes coding for transcription factors, following MeJA induction. To clarify the role of Dof family genes in the MeJA-mediated WSP metabolic pathway, a bioinformatics analysis identified 29, 29 and 22 Dof members in , and , respectively and these were divided into four groups. was encoded a 31.16 kDa protein composed of 292 amino acids, and was targeted on chromosome 3. Furthermore, was a typical transcription factor that localized in the nucleus, displayed transcriptional activity and increased the WSPs accumulation. was co-expressed with 15 genes involved in the WSP metabolic pathway, eight of which displayed a positive Pearson's correlation coefficient. Additionally, correlation analysis revealed the possible downstream targets (KM980199 and KP203853) of .

DISCUSSION

The results of the present study suggest that acts as an important regulator in the WSPs metabolic pathway, exhibiting potential values for the improvement of WSPs in species.