The BBX family and their response to abiotic stress in ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe).

backgroundGinger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), a plant of considerable medicinal and culinary importance, frequently encounters adverse environmental challenges in cultivation. While BBX genes are recognized as fundamental regulators of plant growth and developmental processes, and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, a comprehensive characterization of the BBX gene family in ginger has yet to be fully accomplished.

resultThis study identified 31 members of the BBX gene family in ginger, designated as ZoBBXs, and analyzed their principal characteristics. A comprehensive analysis was conducted on the gene features, conserved protein motifs, chromosome location, phylogenetic relationships, and gene duplication events in ZoBBXs. Based on their gene structures, conserved domains, and motifs, the ZoBBX genes were categorized into five distinct groups. Additionally, the expression patterns of ZoBBXs were investigated across various developmental stages and in response to abiotic stresses, including ABA, cold, drought, heat, and salt treatments, utilizing RNA-seq data and qRT-PCR analysis. Notably, ZoBBX#11 and ZoBBX#27 were identified as potential key regulators of flowering, whereas ZoBBX#05 and ZoBBX#17 appear to play significant roles in stress response mechanisms.

conclusionThis study provides a comprehensive analysis of the BBX gene family in ginger, laying the groundwork for future research into the roles of specific ZoBBX genes in ginger's growth, development, and tolerance to abiotic stresses.