Trihelix Transcription Factor Family in Common Bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.): Genome‐Wide Investigation, Evolution, Structural Characterization, and Expression Patterns Under Abiotic Stresses

The trihelix transcription factor family, also known as GT factors, plays a key role in regulating plant growth, development, and responses to various abiotic stresses. These plant‐specific transcription factors are characterized by a conserved trihelix DNA‐binding domain. This study presents the first comprehensive genome‐wide identification and bioinformatic analysis of Trihelix genes in common bean. A total of 38 Trihelix genes ( PvTH ) were identified and classified into five subgroups: GT‐1, GT‐2, GT γ , SH4, and SIP1. Analyses included phylogenetic relationships, chromosomal distribution, tandem and segmental duplication events, gene structures, promoter regions, exon–intron organization, miRNA interactions, conserved motif identification, 3D protein structure predictions, and synteny relationships with Arabidopsis and soybean. Additionally, RNA‐seq data were used to evaluate the expression profiles of PvTH genes under salt and H 2 O 2 stress, and qPCR analyses confirmed the altered mRNA expression levels after stress treatments. Several PvTH genes showed statistically significant responses under these stress conditions, suggesting their involvement in abiotic stress responses in beans. The findings of this study are novel and contribute to the understanding of the Trihelix gene family in common bean, providing a valuable resource for further functional and stress‐related research in legume crops.