# Genome-Wide Identification of GLK Family Genes in Phoebe bournei and Their Transcriptional Analysis Under Abiotic Stresses

## TL;DR

This study identifies and analyzes GLK genes in Phoebe bournei, revealing their roles in stress responses and potential for genetic improvement.

## Contribution

The first genome-wide identification and analysis of GLK genes in Phoebe bournei under abiotic stresses.

## Key findings

- 61 PbGLK genes were identified and classified into seven subfamilies.
- PbGLK25 and PbGLK30 showed significant upregulation under drought, heat, light, and shade stresses.
- Phylogenetic and structural analyses revealed diverse characteristics of PbGLK genes.

## Abstract

GOLDEN2-LIKE (GLK) transcription factors are crucial regulators of chloroplast development and stress responses in plants. In this study, we investigated the GLK gene family in Phoebe bournei (Hemsl.) Yen C. Yang, a near-threatened species important for forestry and wood utilization in China. We identified 61 PbGLK genes which were classified into seven subfamilies. Our analyses of their phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, and chromosomal distribution revealed diverse characteristics. Expression profiling under different tissues and abiotic stresses showed that PbGLK25 and PbGLK30 were particularly responsive to drought, heat, light, and shade stresses, with significant upregulation. These findings highlight the potential role of PbGLK genes in stress adaptation and provide insights for the genetic improvement of P. bournei.