Bioinformatic Characterization of the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Genes in Wild Arachis Species with Expression Insights in Arachis Hypogaea
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are crucial signalling components involved in plant growth, development, and responses to environmental stimuli. While their roles are well established in model plants, comprehensive characterisation in Arachis species remains limited. This in silico study conducted a genome-wide identification and analysis of MAPK genes in cultivated peanut (A. hypogaea) and its two wild Arachis species, A. duranensis, and A. ipaensis. We identified 42 AhMAPK, 18 AraduMAPK, and 18 AraipMAPK proteins in A. hypogaea, A. duranensis, and A. ipaensis, respectively. These MAPK proteins exhibited diverse physicochemical properties and gene structures. We constructed a maximum likelihood-based phylogenetic tree, categorising the MAPK proteins in Arachis species, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Medicago truncatula, into five distinct groups. Gene structure analysis indicated substantial exon-intron variation, implying potential regulatory complexity and alternative splicing mechanisms. Transcriptome data analysis across multiple major organ and tissue types revealed differential expression patterns, with certain AhMAPK genes showing strong tissue-specific expression, particularly in leaves, roots, and reproductive organs. The inclusion of diploid progenitors provided insights into the evolutionary trajectory and functional conservation of MAPK genes in Arachis species. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of MAPK-mediated signalling in peanuts and offer a genetic foundation for future studies aimed at improving stress resilience and crop performance. The identified MAPK genes present valuable targets for genetic engineering and molecular breeding programmes to enhance peanut productivity and adaptability to environmental stresses.
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