Genome‑wide characterization of the Gα subunit gene family in Rosaceae and expression analysis of PbrGPAs under heat stress

•52 Gα subunit genes were identified in eight Rosaceae species, and phylogenetic, conserved motif, and structural characteristics implied their functional similarity and specificity.•Purifying selection has played a key role in the evolution of Gα subunit genes.•Expression analysis reveals diverse expression patterns and might play a key role in response to heat stress.•Gα subunit genes were shown to be located in the plasma membrane and nucleus in pear.