Expression Profiling of the Dof Gene Family Under Abiotic Stresses in Spinach

Abstract DNA-binding with one finger (Dof) transcription factors are plant-specific transcription factors involved in numerous pathways of plant development, especially in respond to abiotic stresses. Although genome-wide analysis of this gene family has been performed in many species, Dof genes in spinach have not been thoroughly analyzed. We performed a genome-wide analysis and characterization of Dof gene family in spinach. Twenty two Dof genes were identified and classified into four groups with nine subgroups, which was further corroborated by gene structure and motif analyses. Ka/Ks analysis revealed that SoDofs were subjected to purify selection. Using Cis-acting elements analysis, SoDofs were involved in plant growth and development, plant hormones and stress responses. Expression profiling demonstrated that SoDofs expressed in leaf and inflorescence, and responded to cold, heat, and drought stresses. SoDof22 expressed the highest level in male flowers and under cold stress. These results provided a genome-wide analysis of SoDof genes, their gender- and tissue-specific expression, and response to abiotic stresses. The knowledge and resources gained from these analyses will benefit spinach improvement.