# Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the Fructose-1,6-Bisphosphate Aldolase (FBA) Gene Family in Sweet Potato and Its Two Diploid Relatives

## TL;DR

This study identifies and analyzes FBA genes in sweet potato and related species, revealing their roles in growth, starch production, and stress response.

## Contribution

The first genome-wide identification and functional analysis of FBA genes in sweet potato and its diploid relatives.

## Key findings

- Twenty FBA genes were identified in sweet potato and its relatives with conserved structures and functions.
- IbFBA1 and IbFBA6 are candidate genes for storage root development and starch biosynthesis.
- FBA genes respond to drought and salt stress and are involved in hormone signaling.

## Abstract

Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase (FBA; EC 4.1.2.13) is a key enzyme in glycolysis and the Calvin cycle, which plays crucial roles in carbon allocation and plant growth. The FBA family genes (FBA s) have been identified in several plants. However, their presence and roles in sweet potato remain unexplored. In this study, a total of 20 FBAs were identified in sweet potato and its wild wild diploidrelatives, including seven in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas, 2n = 6x = 90), seven in I. trifida (2n = 2x = 30), and six in I. triloba (2n = 2x = 30). Their protein physicochemical properties, chromosomal localization, phylogenetic relationship, gene structure, promoter cis-elements, and expression patterns were systematically analyzed. The conserved genes and protein structures suggest a high degree of functional conservation among FBA genes. IbFBAs may participate in storage root development and starch biosynthesis, especially IbFBA1 and IbFBA6, which warrant further investigation as candidate genes. Additionally, the FBAs could respond to drought and salt stress. They are also implicated in hormone crosstalk, particularly with ABA and GA. This work provides valuable insights into the structure and function of FBAs and identifies candidate genes for improving yield, starch content, and abiotic stress tolerance in sweet potatoes.