Genome-wide identification of DNA-binding with one finger transcription factor genes in Chinese chestnut and their response to abiotic stress

DNA-binding with One Finger (Dof) proteins are unique single zinc finger transcription factors that play important roles in plant growth, development, and abiotic stress responses. However, the <i>Dof</i> genes in Chinese chestnut (<i>Castanea mollissima</i>) have not been studied yet. The transcription factor family in the Chinese chestnut genome was identified and analyzed using bioinformatics. The analysis results revealed that a total of 25 <i>CmDof</i> genes (<i>CmDof1</i> - <i>CmDof25</i>) were identified in Chinese chestnut. Furthermore, we assessed the physicochemical properties, phylogeny, gene structures, <i>cis</i>-regulatory elements (CREs), and expression profiles. The 25 <i>CmDof</i> genes were categorized into five subfamilies according to the phylogeny analysis. Analysis of <i>cis</i>-acting elements revealed that the promoter region of the <i>Dof</i> gene in Chinese chestnut contains light regulation, plant growth and development, plant hormones, and stress-response elements to adapt to environmental changes. The RNA-seq data analysis indicated the potential roles of <i>CmDof</i> genes in the response to temperature stress, drought stress, and shade stress. Additionally, The expression levels of nine <i>CmDof</i> genes showed significant differences in their response to the three abiotic stresses, confirmed by RT-qPCR assays. Collectively, these data lay a foundation for further functional explorations of <i>CmDof</i> genes, especially concerning the possible application of multiple <i>CmDof</i> genes in breeding tolerant plants.