Identification, classification and expression analysis of DREB transcription factor gene family in Aeluropus littoralis under salinity stress

DREB gene family is one large family of transcription factors that plays an important role in regulating plant growth and the response to external environmental stresses. Due to the sequencing of the Aeluropus littoralis halophyte plant genome has provided an excellent opportunity for genome-wide analysis of genes belonging to DREB gene family. In total, 16 non-redundant DREB-encoding genes were identified from the genomic sequences of A. littoralis. In this research, gene structures, phylogenetic relationships, motif compositions and expression profiles of DREB genes under salt stress and recovery conditions were analyzed. The phylogenic construction suggests that the AlDREB gene family was classified into five groups (A1, A2, A4, A5 and A6) in A. littoralis. Gene structure and motif composition revealed that these genes were conservative in each group, suggesting that members of the same group may also have conserved functions. Based on RNA-seq data, AlDREB6.3 and AlDREB6.2 genes were expressed more in root tissue under salinity stress. The least expression level was observed in AlDREB6.4 and AlDREB6.3 genes in leaf tissue under recovery conditions. Result of this study can be applied as a foundation for functional analyses to unravel the biological roles of Aeloropus’ DREB genes.