Comprehensive genome‐wide analysis of the DREB gene family in Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis): evidence for the role of PeDREB28 in plant abiotic stress response

Abstract

SUMMARYDehydration response element binding (DREB) proteins are vital for plant abiotic stress responses, but the understanding of DREBs in bamboo, an important sustainable non‐timber forest product, is limited. Here we conducted a comprehensive genome‐wide analysis of the DREB gene family in Moso bamboo, representing the most important running bamboo species in Asia. In total, 44 PeDREBs were identified, and information on their gene structures, protein motifs, phylogenetic relationships, and stress‐related cis‐regulatory elements (CREs) was provided. Based on the bioinformatical analysis, we further analyzed PeDREBs from the A5 group and found that four of five PeDREB transcripts were induced by salt, drought, and cold stresses, and their proteins could bind to stress‐related CREs. Among these, PeDREB28 was selected as a promising candidate for further functional characterization. PeDREB28 is localized in nucleus, has transcriptional activation activity, and could bind to the DRE‐ and coupling element 1‐ (CE1) CREs. Overexpression of PeDREB28 in Arabidopsis and bamboo improved plant abiotic stress tolerance. Transcriptomic analysis showed that broad changes due to the overexpression of PeDREB28. Furthermore, 628 genes that may act as the direct PeDREB28 downstream genes were identified by combining DAP‐seq and RNA‐seq analysis. Moreover, we confirmed that PeDREB28 could bind to the promoter of pyrabactin‐resistance‐like gene (DlaPYL3), which is a homolog of abscisic acid receptor in Arabidopsis, and activates its expression. In summary, our study provides important insights into the DREB gene family in Moso bamboo, and contributes to their functional verification and genetic engineering applications in the future.

Analysis of the Expression Patterns of 13 DREB Family Genes Related to Cone-Setting Genes in Hybrid Larch (Larix kaempferi × Larix olgensis)

“…TaDREB1 in wheat also shows higher expression under low-temperature induction [39]. PeDREB28 in bamboo is rapidly and strongly induced to reach the highest level under low temperatures [40]. The transcription products of two DREB genes, CnDREB3-1 and CnDREB3-2, in chrysanthemum increase in expression during cold stress [41].…”

Pumpkin CmoDREB2A enhances salt tolerance of grafted cucumber through interaction with CmoNAC1 to regulate H2O2 and ABA signaling and K+/Na+ homeostasis

“…DREB2A is classified as a member of the DREB transcription factor family, which can respond to salt stress and regulate salt tolerance in crops such as rice ( Oryza sativa ), soybean ( Glycine max ) and Arabidopsis thaliana [ 14 , 15 ]. DREB transcription factors possess a conserved AP2 domain and exhibit a high degree of specificity in their binding affinity, specifically associating with the DRE cis -acting element (A/GCCGAC) [ 15 , 16 ].…”