Identification of the BcLEA Gene Family and Functional Analysis of the BcLEA73 Gene in Wucai ( Brassica campestris L.)

Late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins are important developmental proteins in the response of plants to abiotic stress. In our previous study, was differentially expressed under low-temperature stress. Herein, we combined bioinformatics analysis, subcellular localization, expression assays, and stress experiments (including salt, drought, and osmotic stress) to identify and analyze the BcLEA gene family. Gene cloning and functional analysis of were performed in tobacco and Based on the sequence homology and the available conservative motif, 82 gene family members were identified and were divided into eight subfamilies in the genome-wide database of Chinese cabbage. The analysis showed that the gene was located on chromosome A09 and belonged to the LEA_6 subfamily. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis indicated that the genes were differentially expressed to varying degrees in the roots, stems, leaves, and petioles of Wucai. The overexpressed transgenic plants exhibited no significant differences in root length and seed germination rates compared to the wild-type (WT) plants under control conditions. Under salt and osmotic stress treatment, the root length and seed germination rates of the strain were significantly greater than those of WT plants. Under salt stress, the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) of the lines increased significantly, and the relative conductivity, (REL), hydrogen peroxide (H O ) content, and superoxide anion (O ) production rate decreased significantly. Under drought treatment, the survival rate of the lines was significantly higher than that of WT plants. These results showed that the gene of Wucai functions in enhancing the tolerance of plants to salt, drought, and osmotic stress. This study provides a theoretical basis to explore the relevant functions of the gene family members of Wucai.