In-silico characterization and expression profiling of bZIP transcription factors in Triticum aestivum

Abstract

The continuous hike in food prices and the projected increase in food demand pose significant challenges to global food security. To mitigate these challenges, a comprehensive approach involves developing stress-resistant plants that can withstand various environmental factors, leading to increased crop yields and ensuring an adequate food supply for the growing population. Different type of abiotic and biotic stress causes yield loss in plants, one of them is heavy metal stress. In the case of wheat, cadmium toxicity specifically causes reduced plant growth and diminishes crop productivity. This reduction in growth can be attributed to decreased photosynthetic activity, limited nutrient availability, and reduced enzyme activity. Transcription factors play a crucial role in regulating various aspects of plant development and defense responses. Among these factors, bZIP is particularly significant as it is involved in gene expression and signaling pathways. In this study the Insilco analysis was performed to investigate detailed cellular and biological functions of bZIP in wheat, their gene structure conserved motifs and subcellular localization. Cis-regulatory element analysis revealed TabZIPs involved in broad range of functions associated with light responsiveness, stress responsiveness, hormone responsiveness, as well as gene expression specific to endosperm and meristem tissues. To study the effects of cadmium, wheat seedlings were treated with cadmium chloride (CdCl2) at concentrations of 200 µM and 250 µM, representing moderate and toxic treatments, respectively. Phenotypic data obtained from different treatment durations were analyzed using ANOVA and showed that the effects were not significant when compared to the control groups. Expression analysis using qRT PCR was conducted to measure the expression levels of the bZIP in wheat. The results showed a significant increase in bZIP expression under cadmium stress in toxic shoots compared to the control group. However, the expression of the bZIPs gene in toxic roots did not yield significant results. This study contributes to the advancement of understanding the biological functions of bZIP transcription factors and their involvement in plant responses to cadmium stress. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with heavy metal toxicity, particularly in the context of wheat