AP2/ERF Gene Family in Mango: Genome-Wide Identification and Transcription Analysis During Anthocyanin Biosynthesis

Anthocyanins are important secondary metabolites that impart color to fruits, and their biosynthesis is regulated by light. AP2/ERF transcription factors represent one of the largest TF families in plants and play pivotal roles in regulating plant growth and development, secondary metabolism, and stress responses. However, their comprehensive profile in mango (Mangifera indica L.) and their role in mango anthocyanin biosynthesis remain largely unclear. In this study, genome-wide identification and analysis of the AP2/ERF gene family in mango were conducted. A total of 240 family members were identified and classified into five subfamilies. Phylogenetic tree, conserved motif, and gene structure analyses revealed high conservation within the same subfamily and significant divergence among different subfamilies. Synteny analysis indicated that segmental and tandem duplication events played a major role in the expansion of the MiAP2/ERF family. Organ-specific expression profiles based on RNA-seq data uncovered the expression patterns of MiAP2/ERF genes in different plant organs. Furthermore, RNA-seq analyses related to light-induced anthocyanin accumulation, including preharvest “bagging–debagging” treatment and postharvest UV-B/white light and blue light treatments, identified a subset of MiAP2/ERF genes with significant light-responsive trends. The expression patterns of six blue-light-induced MiAP2/ERF genes were validated by means of qPCR. In summary, this study provides a comprehensive theoretical characterization of the AP2/ERF family in mango and reveals its potential role in light-induced anthocyanin accumulation, thereby establishing a solid theoretical foundation for subsequent investigations into gene functions and molecular mechanisms.