LYS3 encodes a prolamin-box-binding transcription factor that controls embryo growth in barley and wheat

Beata Orman-ligeza, Philippa Borrill, Tansy Chia, Marcella Chirico, Jaroslav Doležel, Sinead Drea, Miroslava Karafiátová, Nicole Schatlowski, Charles U. Solomon, Burkhard Steuernagel, Brande B.h. Wulff, Cristobal Uauy, Kay Trafford

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2 Citations (Scopus)
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Abstract

Mutations at the LYS3 locus in barley have multiple effects on grain development, including an increase in embryo size and a decrease in endosperm starch content. The gene underlying LYS3 was identified by genetic mapping and mutations in this gene were identified in all four barley lys3 alleles. LYS3 encodes a transcription factor called Prolamin Binding Factor (PBF). Its role in controlling embryo size was confirmed using wheat TILLING mutants. To understand how PBF controls embryo development, we studied its spatial and temporal patterns of expression in developing grains. The PBF gene is expressed in both the endosperm and the embryos, but the timing of expression in these organs differs. PBF expression in wild-type embryos precedes the onset of embryo enlargement in lys3 mutants, suggesting that PBF suppresses embryo growth. We predicted the down-stream target genes of PBF in wheat and found them to be involved in a wide range of biological processes, including organ development and starch metabolism. Our work suggests that PBF may influence embryo size and endosperm starch synthesis via separate gene control networks.
Original languageEnglish
Article number102965
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Cereal Science
Volume93
Early online date19 Mar 2020
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2020

Keywords

  • PBF
  • high lysine
  • large embryo
  • shrunken endosperm

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