Differential gene expression in response to water deficit in leaf and root tissues of soybean genotypes with contrasting tolerance profiles

This manuscript describes the gene expression profile of transcription factors from AP2/EREBP and WRKY families, in leaves and roots of two contrasting soybean genotypes, Embrapa 48 (drought-tolerant) and BR 16 (drought-sensitive), evaluated under moderate and severe water deficit. Results showed that leaves presented more differentially expressed genes (DEGs) than roots. Embrapa 48 responded to water deficit faster than BR 16, presenting a greater number of DEGs since the first signs of drought. Additionally, drought-tolerant genotype exhibited initial modulation of genes associated with stress, mainly belonging to the category of dehydration responsive genes. Finally, this study identified genes of the AP2/EREBP and WRKY families related to drought tolerance.