Genome-Wide Identification, Evolution, and Expression Pattern Analysis of the GATA Gene Family in Tartary Buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum)

Abstract

GATA is a transcription factor that exerts a vital function in plant growth and development, physiological metabolism, and environmental responses. However, the <i>GATA</i> gene family has rarely been studied in Tartary buckwheat since the completion of its genome. This study used bioinformatics methods to identify <i>GATA</i> genes of Tartary buckwheat and to analyze their subfamily classification, structural composition, and developmental evolution, as well as to discuss the expression patterns of <i>FtGATA</i> genes in different subfamilies. The twenty-eight identified <i>FtGATA</i> genes in the Tartary buckwheat genome were divided into four subfamilies and distributed on eight chromosomes. One pair of tandem repeat genes and eight pairs of fragments were found in chromosome mapping. Spatiotemporal expression patterns of eight <i>FtGATA</i> genes in different subfamilies indicated that the <i>FtGATA</i> gene family has regulatory roles in tissue specificity, fruit development, abiotic stress, and hormonal responses. This study creates a theoretical and scientific foundation for further research on the evolutionary relationship and biological function of <i>FtGATA</i>.