Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the cellulose synthase gene family in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)

Potato (<i>Solanum tuberosum</i>) is the fourth largest staple food crop globally. However, potato cultivation is frequently challenged by various diseases during planting, significantly impacting both crop quality and yield. Pathogenic microorganisms must first breach the plant's cell wall to successfully infect potato plants. Cellulose, a polysaccharide carbohydrate, constitutes a significant component of plant cell walls. Within these walls, cellulose synthase (<i>CesA</i>) plays a pivotal role in cellulose synthesis. Despite its importance, studies on <i>StCesAs</i> (the <i>CesA</i> genes in potato) have been limited. In this study, eight <i>CesA</i> genes were identified and designated as <i>StCesA1-8</i>, building upon the previous nomenclature (<i>StCesA1-4</i>). Based on their phylogenetic relationship with Arabidopsis thaliana, these genes were categorized into four clusters (CesA I to CesA IV). The genomic distribution of <i>StCesAs</i> spans seven chromosomes. Gene structure analysis revealed that <i>StCesAs</i> consist of 12 to 14 exons. Notably, the putative promoter regions harbor numerous biologically functional <i>cis</i>-acting regulatory elements, suggesting diverse roles for <i>StCesAs</i> in potato growth and development. RNA-seq data further demonstrated distinct expression patterns of <i>StCesAs</i> across different tissues. Additionally, quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR) results indicated significant up-regulation of <i>StCesA5</i> expression under biotic stresses, implicating its potential involvement in potato disease resistance.