Identification and expression analysis of the Xyloglucan Transglycosylase/Hydrolase (XTH) gene family under salt stress in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)

BACKGROUND: Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.), a crucial global legume crop for food security, faces significant challenges in yield and quality due to NaCl stress, which disrupts normal growth and development by impacting cell wall integrity. The XTH gene family, involved in cell wall remodeling, plays a key role in enhancing NaCl tolerance by maintaining structural stability under adverse conditions. RESULTS: A total of 31 VuXTH gene family members were identified in cowpea in this study. Further analyses examined their physicochemical properties, gene structures, phylogenetic relationships, and collinearity. qRT-PCR revealed that VuXTHE.1, VuXTHIIIA.1, and VuXTHIIIB.2 exhibited significant upregulation under NaCl-induced salt stress, whereas VuXTHI_II.3, VuXTHI_II.18, and VuXTHIIIB.4 displayed significant downregulation under the same stress conditions. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight the roles of these genes in modulating cell wall dynamics in response to NaCl stress, offering insights into the VuXTH gene family’s adaptation mechanisms. This study provides valuable knowledge for future research aimed at enhancing NaCl tolerance in cowpea and other crops.