13817 10.30848/PJB2026-10(2) <p> Genome-wide identification of the Brassinosteroid-signaling kinase (BSK) gene family in <em>Brassica napus</em></p> Keming Zhu, Wenda Zhao, Rehman Sarwar, Qingfeng Meng, Hongfei Guo, Zhichuang Jin and Xiaoli Tan <p style="text-align: justify;"> Brassinosteroid signaling kinases (BSKs) are a class of plant-specific receptor-like cytoplasmic kinases that are integral to brassinosteroid (BR) signal transduction. In <em>Brassica napus</em>, a total of 37 <em>BnaBSK</em> genes were identified and phylogenetically grouped into eight distinct groups. These genes were located on 17 chromosomes and 2 scaffolds, with 5 members clustered on the C09 chromosome. These proteins contain kinase domains and tetrapeptide repeats and predominantly exhibit acidic properties. The promoters of <em>BnaBSK</em> genes are enriched with stress-responsive <em>cis</em>-elements, particularly those induced by the hormone auxin and anoxia, suggesting a potential role in modulating plant development and metabolism. The expression patterns of <em>BnaBSK</em> genes vary under multiple stress conditions, and several members demonstrate high expression levels across all tissues of oilseed rape throughout its development phase, pointing to the <em>BnaBSK</em> genes contributing to the growth and adaptation. This study investigates the potential roles of BnaBSKs in the growth, development, and stress response of <em>B. napus</em>.</p> Published 2026 58 10 2178 2203