Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase gene family in poplar

Background Xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase (XTH) family plays an important role in cell wall reconstruction and stress resistance in plants. However, the detailed characteristics of XTH family genes and their expression pattern under salt stress have not been reported in poplar. Results In this study, a total of 43 PtrXTH genes were identified from Populus simonii x Populus nigra, and most of them contain two conserved structures (Glyco_hydro_16 and XET_C domain). The promoters of the PtrXTH genes contain mutiple cis-acting elements related to growth and development and stress responses. Collinearity analysis revealed that the XTH genes from poplar has an evolutionary relationship with other six species, including Eucalyptus robusta, Solanum lycopersicum, Glycine max, Arabidopsis, Zea mays and Oryza sativa. Based on RNA-Seq analysis, the PtrXTH genes have different expression patterns in the roots, stems and leaves, and many of them are highly expressed in the roots. In addition, there are11 differentially expressed PtrXTH genes in the roots, 9 in the stems, and 7 in the leaves under salt stress. In addition, the accuracy of RNA-Seq results was verified by RT-qPCR. Conclusion All the results indicated that XTH family genes may play an important role in tissue specificity and salt stress response. This study will lay a theoretical foundation for further study on molecular function of XTH genes in poplar.

Automated summary

The Xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase (XTH) family genes were identified in Populus simonii x Populus nigra, with conserved structures and multiple cis-acting elements related to growth and development and stress responses in their promoters. The expression patterns of PtrXTH genes vary in roots, stems, and leaves, with some genes highly expressed in roots. Growth, development, salt stress response, and tissue specificity are all influenced by XTH genes in poplar.