Genome-wide identification, structural characterization and gene expression analysis of CYP450 family under different light-conditions in Coptis chinensis

The CYP450 enzyme plays a pivotal role in plant metabolism, growth, and development. However, the components of this enzyme in the medicinal plant Coptis chinensis have remained unexplored. To bridge this knowledge gap, a comprehensive gene identification of the CcCYP family was undertaken. This involved integrating transcriptome data with promoter analysis, and investigating the transcriptomic response to light conditions to understand the enzyme's role in C. chinensis metabolism and growth. The study identified 283 CcCYP genes, which were found to be unevenly distributed across 9 chromosomes. Analysis of transcriptome data revealed high expression of these genes in roots and rhizomes, including CcCYP94C8, CcCYP707A1, CcCYP82C15, CcCYP86A14, CcCYP76C35, and CcCYP76C37. Notably, these genes were specifically upregulated under low light conditions (2000 lux) and long photoperiods (16h day-8h night). Promoter analysis of these highly expressed genes showed a significant aggregation of light-responsive elements and MeJA elements, suggesting their involvement in the accumulation of alkaloids. These findings contribute a set of photosensitive genes and propose a regulatory framework for biological metabolism in C. chinensis. Overall, this research lays a solid foundation for future studies and targeted genetic improvement in this medicinal plant.