AUTHOR=Lu Jiaojiao , Xing Guimei , Zhang Yanqiu , Zhang Huihua , Wu Tianyu , Tian Zengzhi , Qu Lianwei 

TITLE=Genome-wide identification, expression and function analysis of the MTP gene family in tulip (Tulipa gesneriana)

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Plant Science

VOLUME=15

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2024.1346255

DOI=10.3389/fpls.2024.1346255

ISSN=1664-462X

ABSTRACT=<p>Currently, soil heavy metal contamination is a severe issue, particularly with Cd pollution. The metal tolerance protein (MTP) proteins, as plant divalent cation transporters, play a crucial role in the transport and tolerance of heavy metals in plants. This study conducted comprehensive identification and characterization of the <italic>MTP</italic> gene family in the tulip. A total of 11 <italic>TgMTP</italic> genes were identified and phylogenetically classified into three subfamilies. Conserved motif and gene structure analyses unveiled commonalities and variations among subfamily members. Expression profiling demonstrated several <italic>TgMTP</italic>s were markedly upregulated under Cd exposure, including the <italic>TgMTP7.1</italic>. Heterologous expression in yeast validated that <italic>TgMTP7.1</italic> could ameliorate Cd sensitivity and enhance its tolerance. These results provide primary insights into the <italic>MTP</italic> gene family in tulip. Phylogenetic relationships and functional analyses establish a framework for elucidating the transporters and molecular mechanisms governing Cd accumulation and distribution in tulip. Key <italic>TgMTP</italic>s identified, exemplified by <italic>TgMTP7.1</italic>, may illuminate molecular breeding efforts aimed at developing Cd-tolerant cultivars for the remediation of soil Cd contamination.</p>