Bioinformatic Analysis of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Genes in Lycopersicon Esculentum

Abstract:
Reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radicals, are byproducts of aerobic metabolism in plants. While ROS play roles in signaling during growth and development, their excessive accumulation under stresses can lead to oxidative damage. Plants have evolved antioxidative defense systems, with superoxide dismutases (SODs) being key enzymes. This study comprehensively analyzed the SOD gene family in tomato using bioinformatics tools. We identified and classified SOD genes, explored their evolutionary relationships and structural diversity, characterized promoter elements, and investigated transcriptional responses to abiotic stresses. Our findings provide insights into the functional roles of SODs in stress adaptation and lay the foundation for understanding SODmediated antioxidative mechanisms in tomato. Through sequence analysis, phylogenetic reconstruction, and expression profiling, we aimed to advance the knowledge of SODs in tomato and facilitate the development of stress-resistant crop varieties. The study also detailed the structure and function of Cu-Zn SOD, highlighting its importance in the antioxidant defense system of plants.