Abstract
BACKGROUND: Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) is an adversity-tolerant crop, but the function of the DUF966 gene family in its growth, development, and stress tolerance is unclear. METHODS: The SbDUF966 gene was identified and analyzed using bioinformatics methods in this study. We also analyzed the expression pattern of SbDUF966 in different tissues and stress conditions using RNA-seq and RT-qPCR. We explored its post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism by combining it with miRNA analysis. RESULTS: A total of six SbDUF966 genes were identified and categorized into two groups (Group I and Group II). Gene expression analysis showed that SbDUF966 exhibited specific expression in different tissues and developmental stages, and the expression response to abiotic stresses such as low temperature, high temperature, salinity, and flooding varied over time. In addition, 12 sorghum miRNAs were predicted as potential regulators of SbDUF966. CONCLUSIONS: The SbDUF966 gene family likely regulates sorghum's growth, development, and stress tolerance.