Genome-Wide analysis of the MdPLATZ gene family and their expression during axillary bud outgrowth in apple (Malus domestica)

Abstract

Abstract Background Plant branching is a plastic character that affects the formation of morphology and structure. It is controlled by a variety of plant hormones through coordination with environmental signals. Plant AT-rich sequence and zinc-binding protein (PLATZ) plays an important role in plant growth and development. However, systematic research on the PLATZ gene family in apple branch has not been conducted. Result In this study, a total of 17 PLATZ genes were identified and characterized from the apple genome. The MdPLATZ genes were clustered into three subfamilies: Group I, Group II, and Group III. The phylogenetic evolutions, conserved motifs, gene structures, regulatory cis-acting elements, and MicroRNAs of the MdPLATZ family members were analyzed. Expression analysis of these genes in different tissues was also assessed. MdPLATZ genes exhibit distinct expression patterns in different tissues. The expression patterns of the MdPLATZ genes were systematically investigated in response to treatments that impact apple branching [thidazuron (TDZ) and decapitation]. Results indicated that the expression of MdPLATZ1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 15, and 16 was effected during axillary bud outgrowth based on RNA-seq data obtained from apple axillary bud treated by TDZ. Additionally, qRT-PCR results showed that MdPLATZ6 was strongly downregulated in response to TDZ and decapitation treatments, however, MdPLATZ15 was significantly upregulated by TDZ, but exhibited little response to decapitation. Conclusion This finding that provides valuable information for further functional investigations of these genes in the control of apple axillary bud outgrowth.