Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of Maize DnaJ Family Genes in Response to Salt, Heat, and Cold at the Seedling Stage

DnaJ proteins, also known as HSP40s, play a key role in plant growth and development, and response to environmental stress. However, little comprehensive research has been conducted on the <i>DnaJ</i> gene family in maize. Here, we identify 91 <i>ZmDnaJ</i> genes from maize, which are likely distributed in the chloroplast, nucleus, and cytoplasm. Our analysis revealed that <i>ZmDnaJs</i> were classified into three types, with conserved protein motifs and gene structures within the same type, particularly among members of the same subfamily. Gene duplication events have likely contributed to the expansion of the <i>ZmDnaJ</i> family in maize. Analysis of cis-regulatory elements in <i>ZmDnaJ</i> promoters suggested involvement in stress responses, growth and development, and phytohormone sensitivity in maize. Specifically, four cis-acting regulatory elements associated with stress responses and phytohormone regulation indicated a role in adaptation. RNA-seq analysis showed constitutive expression of most <i>ZmDnaJ</i> genes, some specifically in pollen and endosperm. More importantly, certain genes also responded to salt, heat, and cold stresses, indicating potential interaction between stress regulatory networks. Furthermore, early responses to heat stress varied among five inbred lines, with upregulation of almost tested <i>ZmDnaJ</i> genes in B73 and B104 after 6 h, and fewer genes upregulated in QB1314, MD108, and Zheng58. After 72 h, most <i>ZmDnaJ</i> genes in the heat-sensitive inbred lines (B73 and B104) returned to normal levels, while many genes, including ZmDnaJ55, 79, 88, 90, and 91, remained upregulated in the heat-tolerant inbred lines (QB1314, MD108, and Zheng58) suggesting a synergistic function for prolonged protection against heat stress. In conclusion, our study provides a comprehensive analysis of the <i>ZmDnaJ</i> family in maize and demonstrates a correlation between heat stress tolerance and the regulation of gene expression within this family. These offer a theoretical basis for future functional validation of these genes.