Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of the JAZ Gene Family in Artemisia argyi.

Abstract

Artemisia argyi H. Lév. & Vaniot (A. argyi) is a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family and is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine. In the field of plant physiology, JAZ proteins play a central role in the jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathway, significantly affecting plant growth and development as well as responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. This study aims to identify and analyze the JAZ gene family of A. argyi. Through a genome-wide analysis of A. argyi. 18 JAZ genes were identified and classified into three subfamilies, based on phylogenetic relationships. Additionally, for this study, we comprehensively analyzed the physical and chemical properties, gene structure, chromosomal locations, conserved domains, cis-acting elements, and evolutionary relationships of these genes. The tissue-specific expression patterns of JAZ genes were obtained from transcriptome data, revealing distinct expression profiles across different tissues in A. argyi. Finally, this research identified a candidate JAZ gene, AarJAZ18, which is involved in the development of glandular trichomes in the leaves of A. argyi. Subsequently, the relative expression levels of AarJAZ18 in different tissues were validated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). In summary, this study provides a foundation for further investigation into the functions of A. argyi JAZ genes and offers valuable gene resources for breeding superior varieties and enhancing germplasm innovation.