GENOME-WIDE IDENTIFICATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND EXPRESSION ANALYSIS OF NA ⁺ /H ⁺ EXCHANGER GENE FAMILY IN TWO CORCHORUS SPECIES

Na ⁺ /H ⁺ exchangers (NHXs) are secondary ion transporter to exchange H+ and transfer Na ⁺ or K ⁺ across membrane plays crucial role in cellular pH and Na ⁺ and K ⁺ homeostasis in plant. In the present study, we have performed genomewide identification, characterization and comparative analysis of NHXs genes in two cultivated jute species and found seven Co and Cc NHXs in each genome. Subsequently phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that Co and Cc NHXs have three sub-group that correlate with other plant species containing 10-12 transmembrane helices (TMH) and a hydrophilic C-terminal domain in the cytoplasmic region, the TMH compose a hollow cylinder to provide the channel for Na ⁺ and H ⁺ transport. Promoter profiling of both species NHXs genes revealed in enrichment of cis element involved in stress responsiveness reflecting their potential involvement against abiotic stress. Transcriptome data and real time PCR of Co and Cc NHXs gene expression analysis under saline and drought condition showed significant differences, which suggest their potential role in abiotic stress conditions. This is the first comprehensive analysis providing baseline information of Co and Cc NHXs genes in abiotic stress condition which can be used for the development of abiotic stress tolerant jute variety.