Comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the GmFRIGIDA gene family in soybean: identification, characterization, and expression dynamics

作者：Song Yu, Yuxuan Wang, Weike Ren, Yisheng Fang, Leili Wang, Yifei Zhang, Chengyang Song, Xiao Luo · 发表于：Frontiers in Plant Science · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.3389/fpls.2025.1536866 · 被引用次数：2 · 研究领域：Soybean genetics and cultivation、Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms、Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis

Background Frigida ( FRI ) genes are crucial for regulating flowering time in plants. While the biological importance of the Frigida-like ( FRL ) gene family has been recognized in Arabidopsis , a systematic analysis of these genes in soybean is lacking. Characterizing FRL genes in soybean will help uncover their roles in flowering regulation, offering valuable insights for improving soybean adaptation. Results In this study, we identified 16 Frigida genes in soybean, naming them based on their relationship to the FRL genes in Arabidopsis thaliana . These genes are unevenly distributed across thirteen chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis categorizes Frigida-like proteins from Arabidopsis , soybean, and rice into four distinct subfamilies (I–IV). Our findings indicate that eight GmFRLs arose from whole-genome duplication (WGD) events, alongside two tandem duplication events. Gene structure analysis confirmed that all GmFRL members contain Frigida domains. Additionally, promoter analysis revealed numerous cis-acting elements related to photoperiodic response, suggesting their significant role in soybean’s light response mechanisms. RNA-seq data demonstrated variable expression levels of GmFRL genes across tissues, including flower, leaf, pod, and seed, and other tissues, while subcellular localization and qPCR analyses further support their vital role in light responsiveness in soybean. Conclusion In summary, our comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights into the evolution ...