Genome-wide identification, phylogenetic analysis, and expression profiling of glycine-rich RNA-binding protein (GRPs) genes in seeded and seedless grapes (Vitis vinifera)

Glycine-rich RNA-binding proteins (GRPs) are essential for many physiological and biochemical processes in plants, especially the response to environmental stresses. GRPs exist widely in angiosperms and gymnosperms plant species; however, their roles in Vitis vinifera are still poorly understood. To characterize VviGRP gene family, we performed a genomic survey, bioinformatics and expression analysis of VviGRPs in grape. We identified nineteen VviGRPs gene family members. The result of bioinformatics analysis showed their motif distribution, gene structure characteristics and chromosomal locations. Then we carried out synteny and phylogenetic analysis to study the origin and evolutionary relationship of GRPs. Tissue-specific expression analysis showed that VviGRPs have different expression patterns. Meanwhile, we studied expression profiles of seventeen ovule-expressed genes during seed development of stenospermocarpic seedless and seeded grapes, and the result showed that most of them have much higher relative expression levels in stenospermocarpic seedless grapes than that of seeded one before 25 days after full bloom (DAFB). It is suggested that VviGRPs may involve in the seed development process. Taken together, our research indicated that VviGRPs are related to seed development and will be beneficial for further investigations into the seed abortion mechanism under stenospermocarpic grapes.

Automated summary

Glycine-rich RNA-binding proteins (GRPs) play essential roles in physiological and biochemical processes in plants, particularly in response to environmental stresses. A study on the VviGRP gene family in grape identified nineteen members and suggested their involvement in seed development. The differential expression patterns of VviGRPs in grape tissues and the higher expression levels in seedless grapes during seed development indicate a potential role in the seed abortion mechanism.