Identification of drought stress-responsive genes in Korean fir (Abies koreana) through comparative RNA-seq analysis

Abstract Background Abies koreana, an endangered species sensitive to drought, faces severe decline due to climate change-induced water deficit. Results In this study, we performed a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of A. koreana under drought stress. RNA-seq data analysis revealed 85,403 contigs of extended lengths, indicative of a high-quality assembly. Gene Ontology classification revealed strong drought stress-responsive regulation of unigenes associated with various biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions. Gene expression levels showed variation at different time points, indicating a nuanced plant response. Numerous transcription factors, notably those belonging to ERF, MYB, LBD, and NAC families, were identified, underscoring their critical roles in drought tolerance. Finally, qRT-PCR validation confirmed the reliability of RNA-seq data. Conclusion Overall, this study reveals candidate genes required for drought tolerance in A. koreana, thus supporting future tree breeding programs for effective forest management.