Abstract:In order to understand the function of transcription factor WOX in Dendrobium officinale, the WOX family members in D. officinale were identified by whole genome analysis techniques, the bioinformatics of WOXs and expression patterns of WOXs were analyzed. The results showed that there were nine WOX transcription factors in D. officinale genome, named DoWOX 1 to DoWOX 9, respectively. The most of DoWOXs contained 2-3 exons, while DoWOX9 had only one exon. The promoters of DoWOXs contained cis-regulatory elements related to hormone induction, stress responsive, plant growth and development. The expression of DoWOX1, DoWOX2, DoWOX3, DoWOX4 and DoWOX9 were the highest at protocorm-like body (PLB) stage by qPCR, which of DoWOX4 was the highest at small flower bud stage, and then decreased. In addition, the expressions of DoWOX3, DoWOX7 and DoWOX9 were the highest in columns, and that of DoWOX4 was the highest in lips. Therefore, DoWOXs might be involved in regulating the growth and development of D. officinale, and play an important role in maintenance of PLBs state and flower development.
