Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the Trihelix Gene Family in Melon

Abstract

The trihelix transcription factor plays roles in regulating plant growth and development, and responses to various abiotic stresses. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of the trihelix family genes in Cucumis melo was conducted, identifying a total of 28 genes in its genome. These genes were further categorized into five subfamilies: GT-1, GT-2, SH4, GTγ, and SIP1. The study encompassed a systematic analysis of gene structures, chromosomal distribution, tandem and segmental duplication events, conserved motifs, phylogenetic relationships, and cis-acting elements of these trihelix genes. The syntenic analysis highlighted strong collinearity between trihelix family genes in C. melo with Arabidopsis, followed by rice while showing limited collinearity with those in B. distachyon. The cis-element analysis found 73 different types of cis-acting elements that are involved in stress tolerance, hormone signaling, growth and development, and responses to light in plants. Publicly available expression data of trihelix family genes in different tissues and growth stages were analyzed. The higher expressions of the genes, CmTH07, CmTH08, CmTH10, and CmTH14 in different tissues indicate their potential roles in growth and development. Based on cis-acting elements, and phylogeny study the genes CmTH02, CmTH16, CmTH20, CmTH21, CMTH24, CmTH26, and CmTH27 indicate their possible roles in abiotic stress tolerance. These findings contribute to enhancing our overall comprehension of the melon trihelix family. Furthermore, the research offers potential candidate genes to facilitate genetic enhancements for sustaining stress resistance in melons.