Genome-wide identification, evolutionary, and expression analyses of the PP2C gene family in Castanea mollissima Blume.

Abstract

Abstract Chestnut (Castanea mollissima Bl.) is an economically important tree species that is primarily utilized for nut and timber production. The protein phosphatase 2C (PP2C) gene family contributes largely to stress responses and developmental processes in several plants. However, the classification, characteristics, and functions of chestnut PP2C genes are unknown. Here, we provide comprehensive analyses and expression profiles of PP2C genes in the chestnut genome. A total of 68 genes were identified, whose protein length (PL), molecular weights (MW) and isoelectric points (IP) are 186 ~ 1079 amino acids, 20.31 ~ 119.40 kDa, and 4.66 ~ 9.30, respectively. They are randomly distributed on 12 chromosomes. These genes formed 12 phylogenetic clusters. Most CmPP2C (PP2C in chestnut) proteins within a subgroup had similar compositions of amino acid sequences of motifs, conserved domains, and exon/introns, according to phylogenetic analyses. The expression profile analysis revealed both significant CmPP2C expression levels in leaves and seeds, and the clear involvement of CmPP2C22 in seed development and multiple abiotic stresses. These findings indicate that CmPP2C genes play potential vital roles in chestnut response to multiple abiotic stresses and provide new insights into the function of CmPP2C genes.