Identification and Bioinformatics Analysis of SUS Gene Family in Wheat

Purpose To identify the sucrose synthase (SUS) gene family and to analyze the gene bioinformatics, providing a theoretical reference for exploring the mechanism of wheat SUS gene family (TaSUS gene family).

Methods The TaSUS gene family members were identified on the whole wheat genome by bioinformatics methods. The phylogenetic evolution, chromosome localization, gene structure, conserved domains, cis-acting elements and expression patterns of TaSUS gene family were analyzed.

Results A total of 24 TaSUS genes distributed on 14 chromosomes were identified from wheat genome, divided into three sub-groups. TaSUS contained multiple exons, but the untranslated region structure of some genes was missing. The promoter region of TaSUS genes contained 45 cis-acting elements, which associated with plant growth and development, and response to stress. Most of TaSUS genes were significantly expressed in wheat spike, but the expression levels in leaves, stems and roots were at low levels.

Conclusion The result is helpful to understand the evolution of TaSUS gene family, and provides a theoretical basis for further study on the biological function of TaSUS gene family.