Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Gene family in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana)

The metallo-enzyme superoxide dismutases (SODs) are significant in protecting plants from environmental challenges as well as regulating their growth and development. Although many plants have been determined to possess SOD gene families in their genomes, it is known, very scarcely, about such gene families in finger millet (Eleusine coracana). This study explored the SOD gene family across the entire genome of finger millet. A total of 10 SOD genes were discovered, comprising eight Cu/ZnSODs and two Fe/MnSOD. These EcSODs are spread irregularly throughout 3A and 8B chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that SOD proteins in plants possibly classified into three primary groups for both EcCu/ZnSODs and EcFe-MnSODs. The motif and exon/intron makeup of SOD genes are conserved within the same subgroup. Protein structure prediction showed all homologs contains highest similarity with SOD peptide structure. Furthermore, numerous cis-elements that react to distinct stresses were distributed differently. The various biological processes associated with background molecular roles of SODs are further demonstrated by gene ontology analysis. The transcriptional factors discovered indicate that SODs are mostly connected to external environmental and biotic stress. This study lays the groundwork for future cloning, Genetic manipulation of SOD gene in finger millet which contributes towards finger millet breeding programs.