Genome-wide survey of KT/HAK/KUP genes in the genus Citrullus and analysis of their involvement in K⁺-deficiency and drought stress responses in between C. lanatus and C. amarus.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The KT/HAK/KUP is the largest K⁺ transporter family in plants, playing crucial roles in K⁺ absorption, transport, and defense against environmental stress. Sweet watermelon is an economically significant horticultural crop belonging to the genus Citrullus, with a high demand for K⁺ during its growth process. However, a comprehensive analysis of the KT/HAK/KUP gene family in watermelon has not been reported.

Results

14 KT/HAK/KUP genes were identified in the genomes of each of seven Citrullus species. These KT/HAK/KUPs in watermelon were unevenly distributed across seven chromosomes. Segmental duplication is the primary driving force behind the expansion of the KT/HAK/KUP family, subjected to purifying selection during domestication

SUBMITTER: Cheng R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11378637 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature