ARA8 — Brassica juncea

Summary

BjARA8 (BJUB04G39360S) on chromosome B04 of Indian mustard encodes a phytochelatin synthase, a member of the papain-like cysteine peptidase superfamily with a phytochelatin synthase C-terminal domain. The enzyme possesses glutathione gamma-glutamylcysteinyltransferase activity, binds cadmium, copper, and other metals, and is associated with phytochelatin biosynthesis, arsenite transport, and cellular detoxification of cadmium and copper ions. It is linked to indole glucosinolate breakdown, defence response to bacteria, callose deposition, and stress responses. The gene has been connected to auxin content, immune signalling, osmotic stress tolerance, and arsenic translocation. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to heavy metal tolerance and accumulation, pathogen resistance, callose deposition, stem lignification, and glutathione conjugate metabolism. The protein localises to the plastid and cytosol.