Identification and Characterization of WOX Gene Family in Flax (<i>Linum usitatissimum</i> L.) and Its Role Under Abiotic Stress.

ABSTRACT: The WOX (WUSCHEL-related homeobox) gene family plays pivotal roles in plant growth, development, and responses to biotic/abiotic stresses. Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), a globally important oilseed and fiber crop, lacks a comprehensive characterization of its WOX family. Here, 18 LuWOX genes were systematically identified in the flax genome through bioinformatics analyses. Phylogenetic classification grouped these genes into three clades: Ancient, Intermediate, and WUS Clades, with members within the same clade exhibiting conserved exon-intron structures and motif compositions. Promoter analysis revealed abundant cis-acting elements associated with hormone responses (MeJA, abscisic acid) and abiotic stress adaptation (anaerobic induction, drought, low temperature). Segmental

SUBMITTER: Song X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12026529 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature