EID1, an F-box protein involved in phytochrome A-specific light signaling

To perceive red and far-red light, plants have evolved specific photoreceptors called phytochromes. Even though the spectral properties of all phytochromes are very similar, they show a distinct mode of action. Here we describe EID1, a negatively acting component of the signaling cascade that shifts the responsiveness of the phytochrome A (phyA) signaling system associated with hypocotyl elongation from red to far-red wavelengths. EID1 is a novel nuclear F-box protein that contains a leucine zipper whose integrity is necessary for its biological function. EID1 most probably acts by targeting activated components of the phyA signaling pathway to ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis.