Molybdenum (Mo) transporter genes in Panicoideae species: a genome-wide evolution study

Molybdenum (Mo) is one important mineral element for plants because it participates actively in many metabolic essential functions like the synthesis of molybdenum cofactor and nitrogen metabolism. Mo is available on soil in an anionic form, and its activity increases with pH elevation. Few studies in the literature reported the identification and characterization of Mo transporter genes. Given the above, we describe a comprehensive in silico analysis of Mo transporters in six Panicoideae species. We identified 15 candidates genes associated with Mo transporters. The subcellular location shows that all predicted genes were present in the plasma membrane. The genomic structure revealed that most of the Mo transporters genes showed no introns, while two sequences of P. virgatum presented one intron. Five conserved motifs and nine putative transmembrane domains were identified. Phylogenetic analysis revealed two groups (A1 and A2), showing close or conserved phylogenetic relationships. Synteny analysis identified 45 pairs of syntenic Mo orthologous among the six genomes of Panicoideae species, and purifying selection played a critical role in the evolution of Mo transporter genes. Efforts need to be undertaken to understand and improve molybdenum uptake and utilization in Panicoideae species for the sustainability of these species. This study will serve as a biotechnological basis for the characterization of candidate genes (Mo) involved in the regulation of gene expression under adverse conditions, allowing the development of future strategies to ensure greater sustainability of the important species of Panicoideae.