Functions of the ERF transcription factor family in plants

Ethylene responsive factors (ERFs) play vital regulatory roles in a variety of developmental processes and stress responses in plants. In this study, ERF family genes in a wide range of plant species were classified into 8 clusters and 14 subclusters on the basis of phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, conserved motifs, and biological functions. ERF genes, especially those in Clusters II and VII, can be used as candidates to improve crop-plant resistance because their over-expression enhances multiple disease resistances and improves tolerances to drought, salt, and freezing in transgenic plants. The comprehensive analysis of phylogenetic relationships, conserved motifs, and physiological functions is useful in elucidating the biological roles of ERF family genes in signal transduction, gene regulation, and defense response under stress environments.