Papain-like and legumain-like proteases in rice: genome-wide identification, comprehensive gene feature characterization and expression analysis.

Background: Papain-like and legumain-like proteases are proteolytic enzymes which play key roles in plant development, senescence and defense. The activities of proteases in both families could be inhibited by a group of small proteins called cystatin. Cystatin family genes have been well characterized both in tobacco and rice, suggesting their potential roles in seed development.