Genome-wide Identification and Characterization of the GATA Transcription Factor Family Suggests Functional Expression Pattern against Various Environmental Conditions in Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Authors: Tran Van Tien, Viet Hong La, Nguyen Quoc Trung, Phi Cong Thuong, Bui Thi Thu Huong, Loc Van Nguyen, Dong Huy Gioi, Quynh Thi Ngoc Le, Huyen Thi Thanh Tran, Ha Duc Chu, Phi Bang Cao Journal: Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences (JAPS) ISSN: 1018-7081 (Print), 2309-8694 (Online) Volume: 34 Issue: 2 Pages: 325-335 Year: 2024 DOI: https://doi.org/10.36899/JAPS.2024.2.0720 URL: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.36899/JAPS.2024.2.0720 Publisher: Pakistan Agricultural Scientists Forum Abstract:

GATA transcription factors (TFs) play a significant role in the regulation of many plant physiological processes. The GATA TF family has been identified and characterized in many important crop species. However, no information is available on the GATA TFs in cassava (Manihot esculenta). In this present study, a total of 36 MeGATA genes has been comprehensively identified, annotated, and characterized in the cassava genome by using various bioinformatics tools. The gene structure and gene duplication of the MeGATA genes indicated the redundancy and differences in their gene structural organization. The GATA TFs in cassava could divide into three different groups, as in other plant species. Of our interest, the expression levels of the MeGATA genes were significantly changed in various major organs/tissues in the growth and development, especially in the response to adverse environmental conditions. Taken together, our findings could provide a basic framework for further functional characterization of stress-inducible MeGATA genes in cassava

Keywords: GATA transcription factor, identification, protein features, cassava, bioinformatics