Genome-wide analysis of DnaJA proteins in Nicotiana tabacum reveals NtDnaJA3 responses to drought stress

Abstract

Abstract Background DnaJA proteins, a prominent subfamily of the DnaJ family, function as molecular chaperones that respond to various external stresses. Extensive studies on the DnaJ family have been conducted in plants. However, research on this subfamily in tobacco remains relatively scarce. Results In this study, we identified 24 DnaJA genes in tobacco, and classified them into three individual groups. A comprehensive analysis based on gene structure, motif composition, and evolutionary pattern revealed the divergence of tobacco DnaJA genes. For the evolution of the NtDnaJA genes, purification selection was the major factor. In addition, the potential regulatory network unveiled that NtDnaJAs could be regulated by miRNAs and various transcription factors associated with diverse stress responses. Through expression pattern analysis of public RNA-seq datasets and qRT-PCR experiments, it was observed that many NtDnaJAs displayed tissue-specific expression and might play significant roles in different biotic and abiotic stresses. Additionally, the pivotal role of NtDnaJA3 in boosting plant drought resistance was confirmed. Conclusions This study provides important perspectives on the evolution of NtDnaJA genes and their involvement in stress responses, laying the groundwork for future research into the roles of DnaJA regulatory genes in tobacco. Graphical Abstract

Keywords

• Tobacco
• DnaJA
• Phylogenetic analysis
• Regulatory network
• Expression pattern
• Drought stress