The actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF) gene family regulates changes in actin. However, the entire ADF family in the sweet orange Citrus sinensis has not been systematically identified, and their expressions in different organs and biotic stress have not been determined. In this study, through phylogenetic analysis of the sweet orange ADF gene family, seven CsADFs were found to be highly conserved and sparsely distributed across the four chromosomes. Analysis of the cis-regulatory elements in the promoter region showed that the CsADF gene had the potential to impact the development of sweet oranges under biotic or abiotic stress. Quantitative fluorescence analysis was then performed. Seven CsADFs were differentially expressed against the invasion of Xcc and CLas pathogens. It is worth noting that the expression of CsADF4 was significantly up-regulated at 4 days post-infection. Subcellular localization results showed that CsADF4 was localized in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Overexpression of CsADF4 enhanced the sensitivity of sweet orange leaves to Xcc. These results suggest that CsADFs may regulate the interaction of C. sinensis and bacterial pathogens, providing a way to further explore the function and mechanisms of ADF in the sweet orange.
Keywords: ADF; Citrus sinensis; citrus canker; phylogenetic analysis; subcellular localization.