Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the DREB gene family in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.)

Background Dehydration response element binding factors (DREBs) represent a family of plant-specific transcription factors involved in regulating plant responses to various abiotic stresses. Results This study identified and analyzed members of the SiDREB gene family for physicochemical properties, phylogeny, and structure of the encoded proteins. The expression pattern of the DREB transcription factor in foxtail millet under stress was analyzed by combining the qRT-PCR data of foxtail millet after low temperature, ABA, and osmotic stress (20% PEG 6000). There were 56 SiDREB genes, divided into 6 subgroups, which were located on 9 chromosomes of foxtail millet. Chromosomal localisation showed that the SiDREB genes were unevenly distributed on 9 chromosomes. Further qRT-PCR results revealed that 19 SiDREB genes have been identified as playing a role in the response to abiotic stress and ABA. Conclusions The results of this study laid a foundation for further study on the function of DREB genes in foxtail millet and will be beneficial to the genetic improvement of foxtail millet.