Genome-wide identification of trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS) gene family reveals the potential role in carbohydrate metabolism in peach

Abstract

Abstract Background: Trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS) is essential for plant growth and development, linking trehalose-6-phosphate (T6P) to carbon metabolism. However, little is known about the TPS gene family in peach and their potential roles in regulating carbohydrates in peach fruit. Results: In this study, 9 TPS genes were identified in peach genome and named according to the homologous genes in Arabidopsis. Phylogenetic analysis showed that three subfamilies were identified, including TPSI, TPSII-1 and TPSII-2, which were also consistent with gene structure analysis. Considerable cis-elements were enriched in the promoters, including plant hormone related elements. Tissue specific analysis showed that these TPS genes were mainly expressed in leaf, stem and fruit, showing different expression patterns for each gene. In addition, during fruit development, the content of T6P was positively correlated with the expression of PpTPS7a and negatively with SnRK1 enzyme activity. Transient overexpression and silencing of PpTPS7ain peach fruit validated its function in regulating T6P content and SnRK1 activity. Conclusions: The identified TPS genes and the potential function in regulating SnRK1 provide insights into carbohydrate metabolism in peach fruit.