Genome-wide analysis and expression pattern profiling of the DUF789 gene family in soybean (Glycine max L.)

The DUF (domain of unknown function) protein family plays a significant role in plant growth and stress response. However, a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the DUF789 gene family in soybean has yet to be conducted. This study aims to identify the DUF789 genes across the soybean genome utilizing the Hidden Markov Model method. A total of 20 GmDUF789 genes have been identified and analyzed for their chromosomal locations, conserved motifs, gene structures, and the evolutionary relationships among the GmDUF789 genes. For multiple sequence alignment, we utilized MEGA 7 to construct a neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree with 1000 bootstrap replications. The MEME program was employed to identify conserved motifs. Transcriptome analysis data revealed a tissue-specific expression profile of GmDUF789 genes in the roots, leaves, and stems, underscoring their diverse roles in soybean growth. Eighteen days post-germination, soybean seedlings (Williams 82) were subjected to salinity and dehydration stress treatments to evaluate gene expression. The plants were transferred to a 100 mM NaCl solution for the salinity stress treatment, and root samples were collected at 0, 1, 6, and 12 h post-exposure. To simulate dehydration stress, the plants were removed from the germination paper and subjected to air drying to replicate water-limiting conditions. This gradual desiccation enabled the assessment of the stress response at specific intervals, with root samples collected at 0, 1, 6, and 12 h post-treatment. The results indicated that GmDUF789 genes exhibited differential expression in root, stem, and leaf tissues, as validated by qRT-PCR analysis. These findings suggest a potential role for GmDUF789 genes in regulating stress tolerance in soybeans and contribute to the understanding of adaptive responses to abiotic stresses.