Genome-wide analysis reveals the TCP-miR159-miR319 module is crucial for rice (Oryza sativa L.) growth and response to drought and salinity.

Abstract

The TCP are key plant-specific proteins responsible for regulating various developmental activities. Herein, we retrieved 21 OsTCP genes from the genome database of rice. The bioinformatics analysis, including conserved motif, domain, interactive proteins, gene ontology (GO) analysis, target micro-RNAs (miRNA) prediction, and the physiochemical properties, highlight the key aspects of OsTCP genes in Oryza sativa L. The phylogeny analysis disclosed that OsTCP was further clustered into five clades (Clade I - Clade V) based on the structural similarities and functional diversities. The GO analysis of OsTCP proteins showed they are primarily exercising the rice developmental processes, reproductive stages in particular. The microarray expression analysis showed transcription in twelve rice tissues, and the differential expression pattern of OsTCP genes revealed their possible involvement in auxin-mediated growth and response against salinity and drought. The predicted miRNA that includes miR159 and miR319 families further the engagement of OsTCP genes in the post-translational regulation of rice growth. Owing to the above-mentioned outcomes, we speculate that OsTCP genes in the O. sativa genome play an essential role in growth and development and fine-tuning the immune responses to various environmental stresses, thus providing major indications for further functional studies.

Keywords

• TCP
• Bioinformatics
• Salinity
• Drought
• rice (Oryza sativa L.)