Genome-wide identification and analysis of the growth-regulating factor family in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum)

Growth-regulating factors (GRFs) are plant-specific transcription factors that have important functions in regulating plant growth and development. GRF gene families have been described in several plant species, but a comprehensive analysis of the GRF gene family in tobacco has not yet been reported. In this study, we identified 25 NtabGRF genes in N. tabacum. The gene structures, motifs, and cis-acting regulatory elements of the NtabGRF genes were analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis divided the genes into six clusters. Additionally, highly conserved regions of microsynteny were identified in all of the sequenced tobacco species. Expression analysis showed that NtabGRF genes were highly expressed in actively growing tissues and responded to various hormone treatments. Our results provide foundational information about the GRF gene family in tobacco species, and open the door for future research on the functions of these genes.