An integrative analysis of Vitis vinifera L. NAC genes in response to Botrytis cinerea.

Botrytis cinerea , a pathogenic necrotizing fungus, induces diseases in grapevines such as grey mold, pre- and post-harvest decay, and a reduction in fruit quality. Plant biologists focus on Vitis vinifera L. NAC genes (VvNAC) due to their crucial role in the plant defense system against diverse stresses. The objective of this study was to conduct an integrative analysis of VvNAC genes, investigating their responses to B. cinerea through an in silico method followed by an in vitro approach. The goal was to establish a connection between the outcomes of both approaches, potentially offering complementary insights. The in silico approach involved the characterization of 74 VvNAC genes within the grapevine's genome. This encompassed the identification of subcellular localization, transmembrane helices, evolutionary rates, promoter analysis, protein-protein interactions, and expression patterns in response to B. cinerea infection followed by a quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). A noteworthy discovery from our analysis revealed that 10 different VvNAC genes have been linked to B. cinerea tolerance. This finding has the potential to serve as a model for future breeding programs. • Investigated V. vinifera NAC genes in Botrytis cinerea response via in vitro and in silico approaches. • Utilized motif analysis, protein interactions, evolutionary rate analysis, and expression profiling for NAC proteins. • Addressed gaps by including qPCR validation and a transient expression assay, focusing on VvNAC36. • Characterized 74 VvNAC genes, predicting 10 linked to B. cinerea tolerance; qPCR validated 5 genes. • Revealed cytoplasmic localization of VvNAC36 , offering insights; correlation between predictions & experiments confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]