Genome-wide Analysis and Functional Identification of KCS Gene Family under Drought and Salt Stresses in Phaseolus vulgaris L

Abstract

β-ketoacyl-CoA synthase (KCS) is an important enzyme that catalyzes the biosynthesis of very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). In this study, the genome-wide analysis and functional characterization of the KCS gene family members in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) plants were conducted, and the response of the identified gene family to abiotic stresses was evaluated. In this study, 19 KCS genes were identified and characterized in the P. vulgaris genome. The molecular weights of these KCS proteins ranged from 49.14 kDa to 60.57 kDa, their amino acid lengths varied from 437 to 534, and their pI values ranged from 8.81 to 9.47, indicating a basic nature. Segmental and tandem duplications were observed in the Pvul-KCS gene family. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Pvul-KCS proteins clustered into three main groups with Arabidopsis thaliana and Glycine max species. Comparative mapping analysis was also conducted with A. thaliana and G. max. Expression profile comparisons indicated that these genes had different expression levels in common bean varieties and played a role in the plant’s response to biotic and abiotic stresses. This study provides important insights into the biological functions of KCS genes in Phaseolus vulgaris and offers valuable information for improving drought and salt stress tolerance in common beans.