The FBXL Gene Family in Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.): Identification and Expression Response to TMV and Abiotic Stresses

Read full text
Authors: Jiaxin Li, Jia Shen, Fang Wang, Wei Wang, Yifeng Yan, Xiaolu Pan, Chaoqiang Jiang, Huaying Yang, Qing Dong
Cited by: 1
References: 61

Abstract

F-box-LRR (FBXL) proteins are crucial components of the SCF ubiquitin ligase complex, regulating diverse processes such as development and stress responses in plants. However, the FBXL family in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) remains poorly characterized. This study performed the first genome-wide analysis of the FBXL gene family in tobacco and identified 47 NtaFBXL genes. Phylogenetic analysis classified them into five clades, among which Clade III exhibited notable expansion. Promoter analysis revealed abundant stress- and hormone-related cis-elements. Expression profiling demonstrated tissue-specific patterns and strong responses to drought, ABA, IAA, and TMV infection. Importantly, six genes exhibited a significant negative correlation with TMV accumulation, suggesting their potential roles in antiviral defense. Moreover, both drought and TMV stress triggered a disturbance of redox homeostasis, a dynamic process that was closely associated with the expression of specific NtaFBXL genes, characterized by upregulated antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, CAT) and accumulated oxidative markers (H2O2, MDA). Collectively, this study provided a foundational resource for understanding the function of NtaFBXLs and identified key candidate genes for the genetic improvement of stress resistance in tobacco.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ubiquitin and proteasome pathways Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity Genomics phytochemicals and oxidative stress

Publication details

Journal / source
Antioxidants
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
15
Issue
2
Pages
246–246
Publication date
13 February 2026
Language
EN