Soybean gene co‐expression network analysis identifies two co‐regulated gene modules associated with nodule formation and development

• DOI: 10.1111/mpp.13327
• Publication Date: 2023-03-28T14:13:51Z
• Authors: Sarbottam Piya; Vince Pantalone; Sobhan Bahrami Za...; Sarah Shipp; Naoufal Lakhssassi; Dounya Knizia; Hari B. Krishnan; Khalid Meksem; Tarek Hewezi
• Keywords: MYB; Gene regulatory network

Abstract Gene co‐expression network analysis is an efficient systems biology approach for the discovery of novel gene functions and trait‐associated modules. To identify clusters functionally related genes involved in soybean nodule formation development, we performed a weighted analysis. Two nodule‐specific modules (NSM‐1 NSM‐2, containing 304 203 genes, respectively) were identified. The NSM‐1 promoters significantly enriched cis‐ binding elements ERF, MYB, C2H2‐type zinc transcription factors, whereas NSM‐2 TCP, bZIP, bHLH suggesting role these regulatory factors transcriptional activation co‐expressed genes. included with potential roles nodulation, including those xylem transmembrane transport, ethylene signalling pathway, cytoskeleton organization, cytokinesis regulation cell cycle, meristem initiation growth, regulation, DNA methylation, histone modifications. Functional two using TILLING mutants provided insight into involvement unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis folate metabolism development. identified provide valuable resources further functional genomics studies to dissect genetic basis development soybean.