Table 1_Identification of the PFK gene family in Solanum species and expression analysis in the fruitof Solanum lycopersicum.doc

IntroductionPhosphofructokinase (PFK) is a crucial rate-limiting enzyme in glycolysis, essential for sugar metabolism and fruit quality. This study provides the first pangenome-scale analysis of the PFK family across Solanum species.
MethodsUsing pan-genome data, 156 PFK genes were identified across 12 Solanum species. Comprehensive bioinformatic analyses, protein-protein interaction predictions, and promoter motif scans were performed. Expression patterns across four fruit developmental stages were characterized via RNA‐seq and validated by qRT‐PCR.
ResultsThe PFK family, categorized into PFK and PFP subfamilies, expanded primarily through segmental duplication under strong purifying selection. We identified distinct, stage-specific expression patterns, with SolyPFK07 and SolyPFPA2 emerging as key regulators of sugar accumulation. Promoters contained numerous elements responsive to hormones and abiotic stresses.
ConclusionPFK genes are vital for fruit development, sugar metabolism, and stress adaptation. These findings offer a theoretical basis and genetic resources for the molecular breeding of high-quality tomatoes.