Morphological analysis and expression profiling of potential drought tolerant genes in Arachis hypogaea

Abstract

Arachis hypogaea, a crucial crop in Pakistan, provides widely consumed seeds used for food and oil production, containing valuable minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins. Drought, a significant environmental factor, limits peanut cultivation and increases the risk of aflatoxin contamination, making them unsuitable for human consumption. Exploring novel drought control methods is essential to sustain peanut production. This study focuses on the morphological, physiological, biochemical analysis and expression profiling of potential drought-tolerant genes in two peanut varieties. In-silico analysis was performed to examine master regulators of drought responsive genes in NAC family, including homology modeling, subcellular localization, cis-regulatory elements, chromosomal mapping, and protein-protein interactions. Drought stress and recovery responses were analyzed in two peanut varieties - the local BARD479 and NARC2019. NARC 2019 performed better in morphological, physiological parameters and antioxidant enzymes like SOD, POD, CAT, APX, GST, and MDA as compared to other variety. Scanning electron microscopy visualized closed stomata in the drought treated NARC2019 variety. Biochemical assays showed increased antioxidants in NARC2019 under drought, conferring tolerance. Additionally, NAC72 and NAC53 gene expression was significantly upregulated during drought stress and came back to normal upon rewatering. Overall, this study would provide a better understanding of the underlying molecular mechanism of drought responsive genes in Arachis hypogaea.