Cre-lox univector acceptor vectors for functional screening in protoplasts: analysis of Arabidopsis donor cDNAs encoding ABSCISIC ACID INSENSITIVE1-like protein phosphatases.

The 14,200 available full length Arabidopsis thaliana cDNAs in the universal plasmid system (UPS) donor vector pUNI51 should be applied broadly and efficiently to leverage a "functional map-space" of homologous plant genes. We have engineered Cre-lox UPS host acceptor vectors (pCR701- 705) with N-terminal epitope tags in frame with the loxH site and downstream from the maize Ubiquitin promoter for use in transient protoplast expression assays and particle bombardment transformation of monocots. As an example of the utility of these vectors, we recombined them with several Arabidopsis cDNAs encoding Ser/Thr protein phosphatase type 2C (PP2Cs) known from genetic studies or predicted by hierarchical clustering meta-analysis to be involved in ABA and stress responses.

Redundant and distinct functions of the ABA response loci ABA-INSENSITIVE(ABI)5 and ABRE-BINDING FACTOR (ABF)3.

Abscisic acid-responsive gene expression is regulated by numerous transcription factors, including a subgroup of basic leucine zipper factors that bind to the conserved cis-acting sequences known as ABA-responsive elements. Although one of these factors, ABA-insensitive 5 (ABI5), was identified genetically, the paucity of genetic data for the other family members has left it unclear whether they perform unique functions or act redundantly to ABI5 or each other. To test for potential redundancy with ABI5, we identified the family members with most similar effects and interactions in transient expression systems (ABF3 and ABF1), then characterized loss-of-function lines for those loci.

BZR1 is a transcriptional repressor with dual roles in brassinosteroid homeostasis and growth responses.

Brassinosteroid (BR) homeostasis and signaling are crucial for normal growth and development of plants. BR signaling through cell-surface receptor kinases and intracellular components leads to dephosphorylation and accumulation of the nuclear protein BZR1. How BR signaling regulates gene expression, however, remains unknown.

ABI5 interacts with abscisic acid signaling effectors in rice protoplasts.

Abscisic acid (ABA) regulates seed maturation, germination, and adaptation of vegetative tissues to environmental stresses. The mechanisms of ABA action and the specificity conferred by signaling components in overlapping pathways are not completely understood. The ABI5 gene (ABA insensitive 5) of Arabidopsis encodes a basic leucine zipper factor required for ABA response in the seed and vegetative tissues.