Genome-wide identification and characterization of PGIP gene family in Vigna radiata L. Wilczek and its expression in wild non-progenitor, Vigna umbellata L. Thunb. modulate bruchid resistance

Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek] is an important short duration grain legume. The huge demand of mungbean around the world creates a substantial export potential. Pulse beetles (Callosobruchus spp.) are a key issue of concern among the several threats that limit the production of mungbean, particularly under storage conditions. An investigation was carried out to analyze the polygalacturonase inhibiting protein (PGIP) gene family in mungbean and their possible role in bruchid resistance. A pulse beetle resistant wild ricebean genotype belongs to Vigna umbellata (PRR 2008-2) and a susceptible cultivar from V. radiata (Shikha) were used in present study for gene expression profiling. Total of 41 VrPGIP genes were identified in the mungbean genome. All the genes were randomly distributed over the chromosomes. All the 41 VrPGIP genes were grouped into 06 major clades and had single exon except VrPGIP-37. All the genes comprised of Glyco_Hydro_18 domain. Four candidate genes VrPGIP-17, VrPGIP-18, VrPGIP-21 and VrPGIP-23 were found significantly up-regulated in the PRR 2008-2. These genes may be utilized in the development of resistant varieties against pulse beetle in breeding programme.