Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profile of Farnesyl Pyrophosphate Synthase (FPS) Gene Family in Euphorbia Hirta L.

The biosynthesis of isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP), which are essential for sesquiterpenes and triterpenes, respectively, is primarily governed by the mevalonate pathway, wherein farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (FPS) plays a pivotal role. This study identified eight members of the FPS gene family in Euphorbia hirta, designated EhFPS1-EhFPS8, through bioinformatics analysis, revealing their distribution across several chromosomes and a notable tandem gene cluster. The genes exhibited strong hydrophilic properties and key functional motifs crucial for enzyme activity. An in-depth analysis of the EhFPS genes highlighted their significant involvement in isoprenoid metabolism and lipid biosynthesis, with expression patterns influenced by hormones such as jasmonic acid and salicylic acid. Tissue-specific analysis demonstrated that certain FPS genes, particularly EhFPS1, EhFPS2, and EhFPS7, showed elevated expression levels in latex, suggesting their critical roles in terpenoid biosynthesis. Furthermore, subcellular localization studies have indicated that these proteins are primarily found in the cytoplasm, reinforcing their function in metabolic processes. These findings provide a foundational understanding of the FPS genes in E. hirta, including their gene structures, conserved domains, and evolutionary relationships. This study elucidates the potential roles of these genes in response to environmental factors, hormone signaling, and stress adaptation, thereby paving the way for future functional analyses aimed at exploring the regulation of terpenoid biosynthesis and enhancing stress tolerance in this species.