Evolutionary Diversification and Functional Roles of MYB Transcription Factors in Algae: Insights from Genomic Distribution and Regulatory Networks

Abstract

MYB transcription factors (TFs) represent a conserved family of DNA-binding regulators involved in diverse cellular and physiological processes. MYB TFs are well-characterized in terrestrial plants, but their evolutionary history and functional diversity in algae remain poorly understood. This review summarizes current knowledge of the structural classification, evolutionary characteristics, and regulatory functions of algal MYB TFs. Bibliometric analysis of Web of Science Core Collection publications (1 January 2003–27 April 2026) reveals a marked expansion in algal MYB research since 2019, with emphasis on transcriptional regulation, lipid metabolism, and stress adaptation. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that algal MYBs exhibit lineage-specific diversification, despite retention of MYB domains conserved with land plants. Functional studies further demonstrate that MYB TFs regulate cell cycle progression, carbon-concentrating mechanisms, lipid biosynthesis, nutrient metabolism, and abiotic stress responses. Nevertheless, most algal MYB genes remain functionally uncharacterized. Integrating multi-omics with genome editing will improve understanding of MYB-mediated regulatory networks and facilitate future applications in algal biotechnology and metabolic engineering.