Comprehensive Identification, Structural Annotation, and Motif Characterization of the GATA Transcription Factors in Catharanthus roseus
摘要
Catharanthus roseus is a medicinally important plant known for producing pharmacologically active alkaloids, yet the regulatory mechanisms underlying its growth and secondary metabolism remain largely unexplored. Transcription factors, particularly those belonging to the GATA family, play crucial roles in plant development, stress response, and metabolic regulation. In this study, a genome-wide analysis was conducted to identify and characterize the GATA transcription factor family in C. roseus using recently released genomic and proteomic data. A total of 23 CrGATA genes were identified and systematically analyzed for their sequence features, protein properties, phylogenetic relationships, exon-intron structures, and conserved motifs. The proteins displayed a wide range of molecular weights, isoelectric points, and hydropathicity, indicating functional diversity. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the CrGATA proteins into four main clades, which were supported by distinct motif patterns and gene structures. Comparative analysis with other plant species highlighted both conserved features and lineage-specific expansions. This work provides a foundational understanding of the GATA gene family in C. roseus, offering a valuable resource for future studies on gene function and metabolic pathway regulation in this medicinal plant.