Genomic Survey of LRR-RLK Genes in <i>Eriobotrya japonica</i> and Their Expression Patterns Responding to Environmental Stresses

Abstract

The impact of global warming is increasing and thus exacerbating environmental stresses that affect plant yield and distribution, including the Eriobotrya japonica Lindl (Loquat tree). Eriobotrya japonica, a member of the Rosaceae family, is valued not only for its nutritious fruit but also for its medicinal purposes, landscape uses, and other pharmacological benefits. Nonetheless, the productivity of Eriobotrya japonica has raised a lot of concern in the wake of adverse environmental conditions. Understanding the characteristics of the LRR-RLK gene family in loquat is crucial, as these genes play vital roles in plant stress responses. In this study, 283 LRR-RLK genes were identified in the genome of E. japonica that were randomly positioned on 17 chromosomes and 24 contigs. The 283 EjLRR-RLK proteins clustered into 21 classes and subclasses in the phylogenetic analysis based on domain and protein arrangements. Further explorations in the promoter regions of the EjLRR-RLK genes showed an abundance of cis-regulatory elements that functioned in growth and development, phytohormone, and biotic and abiotic responses. Most cis-elements were present in the biotic and abiotic responses suggesting that the EjLRR-RLK genes are invested in regulating both biotic and abiotic stresses. Additional investigations into the responses of EjLRR-RLK genes to abiotic stress using the RT-qPCR revealed that EjLRR-RLK genes respond to abiotic stress, especially heat and salt stresses. Particularly, EjapXI-1.6 and EjapI-2.5 exhibited constant upregulation in all stresses analyzed, indicating that these may take an active role in regulating abiotic stresses. Our findings suggest the pivotal functions of EjLRR-RLK genes although additional research is still required. This research aims to provide useful information relating to the characterization of EjLRR-RLK genes and their responses to environmental stresses, establishing a concrete base for the following research.

Keywords

• <i>Eriobotrya japonica</i>
• <i>LRR-RLK</i> genes
• abiotic stress response
• gene evolution
• phylogeny