Genome-Wide Identification and Functional Analysis of Lysine Histidine Transporter (LHT) Gene Families in Maize

Abstract

Amino acid transporters (AATs) are essential membrane proteins that transfer amino acids across cells. They are necessary for plant growth and development. The lysine histidine transporter (<i>LHT)</i> gene family in maize (<i>Zea mays</i>) has not yet been characterized. According to sequence composition and phylogenetic placement, this study found 15 <i>LHT</i> genes in the maize genome. The <i>ZmLHT</i> genes are scattered across the plasma membrane. The study also analyzed the evolutionary relationships, gene structures, conserved motifs, 3D protein structure, a transmembrane domain, and gene expression of the 15 <i>LHT</i> genes in maize. Comprehensive analyses of <i>ZmLHT</i> gene expression profiles revealed distinct expression patterns in maize <i>LHT</i> genes in various tissues. This study's extensive data will serve as a foundation for future <i>ZmLHT</i> gene family research. This study might make easier to understand how <i>LHT</i> genes work in maize and other crops.