The OPR gene family: bioinformatics characterization and functional implications for soybean seed deterioration

Abstract

Introduction 12-oxophytodienoate reductases (OPRs) are vital enzymes for jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis, which mediate plant growth, development and stress defense. Characterizing the soybean OPR gene family is essential for breeding soybean cultivars with strong seed storage stability. Methods Genome-wide identification and systematic analysis of soybean OPR genes were performed in this study. Twelve OPR members were identified and renamed according to their chromosomal positions, and their chromosomal distribution patterns were analyzed. A multi-species phylogenetic tree of OPR proteins was constructed, along with analyses of conserved motifs and gene structures. Cis-acting elements were predicted to explore hormone-responsive regulatory sequences, and the expression correlation between GmOPR11 and seed deterioration resistance was analyzed under different sowing dates. Results A total of 12 GmOPR genes were identified and unevenly scattered on soybean chromosomes. Phylogenetic tree, conserved motif and gene structure analyses clarified the evolutionary features of the OPR family. Cis-element prediction showed that abscisic acid (ABA)- and methyl jasmonate (MeJA)-responsive cis-elements occupied the largest proportion. The expression of GmOPR11 was significantly negatively correlated with soybean seed deterioration resistance across different sowing treatments. Discussion This negative correlation may be caused by excessive accumulation of jasmonic acid (JA). Excess JA could disrupt endogenous hormone homeostasis and trigger reactive oxygen species production, which in turn accelerates soybean seed deterioration. This study systematically characterizes the evolutionary patterns and biological functions of the soybean OPR family, laying a theoretical foundation for breeding soybean varieties with enhanced seed storage stability.