Comparative genomics revealed the gene evolution and functional divergence of TaMRS2/CorA/NIPA magnesium transporter families in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Introduction Magnesium transporters (MGTs) are crucial for Mg²⁺ uptake, transport, and storage. Although MGT family has been characterized in many plants, genome-wide identification and functional analysis of MGTs in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) remain largely unclear. Methods In this study, we identified wheat MGT(italic) genes using comparative genomics, and further analyzed their phylogeny, gene structure, conserved motifs, subcellular localization, gene duplication, protein–protein interactions, and expression patterns. Tissue-specific expression was verified by qRT‑PCR. Results A total of 63 TaMGT(italic) genes were identified and classified into MRS2, CorA, and NIPA subfamilies. Most TaMGT proteins were predicted to target membrane systems. A total of 200 magnesium transporter genes were found considered to be generated by gene duplication events, and 1045 interacting proteins were predicted. TaMGT(italic) genes were highly expressed in flowering anthers. qRT‑PCR confirmed that 24 TaMRS2(italic) genes exhibited obvious tissue specificity, with higher expression in leaves, stems, and spikes than in roots. Discussion This study systematically reveals the evolutionary characteristics and functional differentiation of wheat MGT(italic) genes, and supports their important roles in reproductive growth. Our results provide a theoretical basis for further functional studies of magnesium transporters in wheat.