Document Type : Research paper

Authors

• Zahra Shirazi ¹
• Mahsa Rostami ²
• Abozar Ghorbani ²

¹ Biotechnology Research Department, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), National Botanical Garden, Tehran Karaj Freeway, Tehran, Iran

² Nuclear Agriculture Research School, Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute (NSTRI), Karaj, Iran

Abstract

Here, we evaluated how GolS and RfS gene families can potentially assist with grapevine drought tolerance. Through comprehensive bioinformatics analysis, we identified a set of putative genes associated with drought response in grapes. The analysis revealed the conservation of key functional domains and conserved motifs within the gene sequences, suggesting their potential involvement in stress adaptation. Additionally, we performed expression analysis of the identified genes under drought stress conditions. Accordingly, the results indicated substantial up-regulation levels in several genes, suggesting their potential importance in how grapevines respond to water scarcity. We explored the co expression network of these genes and identified possible interactions and regulatory relationships. The findings provided valuable information on complex regulatory mechanisms underlying drought-response in grapevines. The results bear implications for the genetic improvement of grape varieties, particularly in enhancing drought tolerance. By understanding the genetic basis of the droughtresponse mechanism, we can develop targeted strategies to improve crop management and assist in future attempts to breed grape varieties, emphasizing an enhanced tolerance to water deficits. This study sheds light on the potential roles of the GolS and RfS gene families in grapevine drought tolerance. The findings underscore the importance of genetic adaptation in grapevines to drought stress conditions. The knowledge herein can guide future research and breeding efforts to develop drought-tolerant grape varieties, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of grape production and the agricultural industry.

Keywords

• Carbohydrates
• Galactinol synthase
• Gene expression
• Osmoprotectant, Raffinose synthase