Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the glutathione S-transferase (GST) family under different developmental tissues and abiotic stresses in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis)

The glutathione-S-transferase (GST) family of proteins is ancient and versatile, and plays an important role in combating exogenous pathogens, endogenous toxicants, and various abiotic stresses. Although the GST family has been studied in many crops, few studies have been reported in Chinese cabbage ( Brassica rapa ssp. Pekinensis). In the present work, genome-wide analysis of the GST family in Chinese cabbage was carried out, and the expression and functions of genes under different conditions were investigated. A total of 88 GST genes were identified and divided into seven subfamilies according to their evolutionary relationships. Tandem duplication of genes was revealed as the main mechanism of expansion in this family. Transcriptome analysis under high and low temperatures and abiotic stress conditions revealed that most GST genes respond to environmental changes to varying degrees, particularly under herbicide and cadmium stress conditions. Our findings provide a basis for analysing the functions of GST family members in Chinese cabbage, especially in response to various abiotic stresses.