Twelve embryogenesis abundant protein (LEA) genes (named ThLEA-1 to -12) were cloned from Tamarix hispida.The expression profiles of these genes in response to NaCl, PEG, and abscisic acid (ABA) in roots, stems, and leaves of T.hispida were assessed using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
These ThLEAs all showed tissue-specific expression patterns in roots, stems, and leaves under normal growth conditions.However, they shared a high similar expression patterns in the roots, Crutch Asseccories stems, and leaves when exposed to NaCl and PEG stress.Furthermore, ThLEA-1, -2, -3, -4, and -11 were induced by NaCl and PEG, but ThLEA-5, -6, -8, -10, and -12 were downregulated by salt and Magnetic Power Bank drought stresses.
Under ABA treatment, some ThLEA genes, such as ThLEA-1, -2, and -3, were only slightly differentially expressed in roots, stems, and leaves, indicating that they may be involved in the ABA-independent signaling pathway.These findings provide a basis for the elucidation of the function of LEA genes in future work.