Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of Aux/IAA gene family in strawberry (Fragaria vesca)

Auxin signaling and its components (Auxin/Indole-3-Acetic Acid (Aux/IAA)) are critical for plant growth and development. Here, we performed a genome-wide annotation and identified twenty-one Aux/IAA genes in strawberry (Fragaria vesca). Most FveIAAs were located on chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6, while no FveIAAs were found in chromosomes 3 and 7. Phylogenetic analysis divided these genes into nine subfamilies. Most FveIAAs contained the DNA-binding and Aux/IAA domains, as well as motifs I–IV. There were 2–6 exons in the FveIAA genes based on the gene structure analysis. Also, we found that four pairs of FveIAA genes underwent segment duplications. Moreover, four pairs of orthologous genes were observed between strawberry and Arabidopsis. Cis-element analysis in the promoter region indicated that FveIAAs may be involved in light, phytohormones, stress responses, and growth processes. Prediction of protein-protein interaction revealed that 17 of 21 FveIAA proteins were involved in the auxin-related signaling pathways. Additionally, FveIAAs showed tissue-specific expression and responded to IAA treatment. Thus, this systematic annotation of the FveIAA family would provide a fundamental basis for further functional and evolutionary analysis and to understanding the role of FveIAAs in strawberry growth and development.