Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of theVQgene family in sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.)

Valine-glutamine (VQ) genes play important roles in plant growth, development and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, little is known regardingVQgene characteristics in sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.). Here, 20VQgenes were identified and classified into seven groups (I-VII) that are distributed among 11 chromosomes within the sunflower genome. Based on phylogenetic analyses,HaVQgenes that clustered within the same branches shared similar motifs and structures. MostHaVQgenes exhibited tissue-specific expression patterns suggesting putative roles in plant drought and salt stress responses, with several HaVQ proteins predicted to interact with HaWRKY proteins. The results of this study should enhance our knowledge regardingHaVQgenes and should guide future studies to explore the biological functions of HaVQ proteins during various developmental processes and stress responses in sunflower.

Automated summary

Twenty VQ genes were identified in sunflowers and classified into seven groups. Phylogenetic analysis showed that HaVQ genes clustered within the same branches shared similar motifs. Most HaVQ genes exhibited tissue-specific expression patterns, suggesting potential roles in plant stress responses.