BTB (broad-complex, tramtrack, and bric-abrac)
family proteins are characterized by the presence of
a protein–protein interaction BTB domain. BTB proteins
have diverse functions, including transcriptional regulation,
protein degradation, chromatin remodeling, and cytoskeletal
regulation. However, little is known about this gene family
in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), the most important
model plant for crop species. In this study, 38 BTB genes
were identified based on tomato whole-genome sequence.
Phylogenetic analysis of BTB proteins in tomato revealed
that SlBTB proteins could be divided into at least 4 subfamilies.
The SlBTB proteins contains 1–3 BTB domains, and
several other types of functional domains... More
BTB (broad-complex, tramtrack, and bric-abrac)
family proteins are characterized by the presence of
a protein–protein interaction BTB domain. BTB proteins
have diverse functions, including transcriptional regulation,
protein degradation, chromatin remodeling, and cytoskeletal
regulation. However, little is known about this gene family
in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), the most important
model plant for crop species. In this study, 38 BTB genes
were identified based on tomato whole-genome sequence.
Phylogenetic analysis of BTB proteins in tomato revealed
that SlBTB proteins could be divided into at least 4 subfamilies.
The SlBTB proteins contains 1–3 BTB domains, and
several other types of functional domains, including KCTD
(Potassium channel tetramerization domain-containing),
the MATH (meprin and TRAF homology), ANK (Ankyrin
repeats), NPR1 (nonexpressor of pathogenesis-related proteins1),
NPH3 (Nonphototropic Hypocotyl 3), TAZ zinc
finger, C-terminal Kelch, Skp1 and Arm (Armadillo/betacatenin-like
repeat) domains are also found in some tomato
BTB proteins. Moreover, their expression patterns in tissues/stages,
in response to different abiotic stress treatments
and hormones were also investigated. This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of BTB gene family in the
tomato genome. The data will undoubtedly be useful for better
understanding the potential functions of BTB genes, and
their possible roles in mediating hormone cross-talk and abiotic
stress in tomato as well as in some other relative species.