ZmXYL modulates auxin-induced maize growth.
Haiyan Li1, Huifang Tao1, Yao Xiao1
1National Engineering Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance, School of Life Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China.
The Plant Journal : for Cell and Molecular Biology
|June 10, 2023
Summary
Dwarf maize mutants (xyl-1, xyl-2) with reduced α-xylosidase activity show altered cell wall composition and lower auxin levels. This suggests plant cell wall oligosaccharides act as signals regulating plant growth.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Plant height is crucial for crop architecture, lodging resistance, and yield.
- Genes controlling plant height are key targets for crop improvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify and characterize novel dwarf mutants in Zea mays (maize).
- Investigate the role of the ZmXYL gene and its α-xylosidase activity in plant growth and development.
Main Methods:
- EMS mutagenesis to create xyl-1 and xyl-2 alleles in Zea mays.
- Biochemical assays to measure α-xylosidase activity and quantify xylose and XXXG content.
- Hormonal analysis to determine auxin levels and assess plant response to IAA.
Main Results:
- The ZmXYL gene encodes an α-xylosidase involved in xyloglucan (XyG) metabolism.
- Loss-of-function mutants (xyl-1, xyl-2) exhibit dwarfism, decreased α-xylosidase activity, reduced xylose, increased XXXG, and lower auxin content.
- XXXG negatively impacts auxin homeostasis, antagonizing auxin's role in mesocotyl cell division.
Conclusions:
- The ZmXYL gene is essential for normal maize growth.
- Plant cell wall-derived oligosaccharides, like XXXG, function as signaling molecules influencing hormone levels and plant development.
- This study provides insights into the complex interplay between cell wall structure and plant growth regulation.
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