Genome-wide identification of the YABBY gene family and functional characterization of TaYABBY4A in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Background YABBYs are plant-specific transcription factors that play crucial roles in plant growth, development, and stress responses. Despite extensive studies in various plant species, a systematic analysis of YABBYs in wheat grains is still lacking. Results In this study, 21 TaYABBYs were identified using the Chinese Spring wheat genome database and were divided into five subfamilies through phylogenetic analysis. Gene collinearity analysis revealed the evolutionary characteristics of the TaYABBYs. Analysis of cis-acting elements in the promoter region identified elements related to endosperm development. SNP analysis uncovered genetic variations within the YABBY gene family. Meanwhile, RNA-Seq and qRT-PCR techniques were employed to explore the expression patterns of TaYABBYs, and the results showed that these genes are differentially expressed in different wheat tissues. Additionally, we selected TaYABBY4A from the CRC subfamily for overexpression in Arabidopsis thaliana to verify the function of TaYABBYs. Overexpression of the TaYABBY4A in Arabidopsis resulted in delayed bolting and flowering, as well as reductions in the number and diameter of rosette leaves and seed size. Conclusions This study further confirms that the YABBY gene family plays an important regulatory role in the growth and development of wheat, providing a reference for in-depth exploration of the functions of YABBYs in wheat.