The trihelix transcription factor (GT) family is widely involved in regulating plant growth and development, and most importantly, responding to various abiotic stresses. Our study first reported the genome-wide identification and analysis of GT family genes in Medicago truncatula. Overall, 38 trihelix genes were identified in the M. truncatula genome and were classified into five subfamilies (GT-1, GT-2, SH4, GTγ and SIP1). We systematically analyzed the phylogenetic relationship, chromosomal distribution, tandem and segmental duplication events, gene structures and conserved motifs of MtGTs. Syntenic analysis revealed that trihelix family genes in M. truncatula had the most collinearity relationship with those in soybean followed by alfalfa, but very little collinearity with those in the maize and rice. Additionally, tissue-specific expression analysis of trihelix family genes suggested that they played various roles in the growth and development of specific tissues in M. truncatula. Moreover, the expression of some MtGT genes, such as MtGT19, MtGT20, MtGT22, and MtGT33, was dramatically induced by drought, salt, and ABA treatments, illustrating their vital roles in response to abiotic stresses. These findings are helpful for improving the comprehensive understanding of trihelix family; additionally, the study provides candidate genes for achieving the genetic improvement of stress resistance in legumes.
Keywords: GT; Medicago truncatula; drought and salt stress; expression profile; trihelix transcription factor family.