RDR1 — Brassica oleracea var. botrytis

Summary

BoRDR1, located on chromosome 5 of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis), encodes an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) with RNA-binding activity. The gene is associated with posttranscriptional gene silencing by RNA, siRNA processing, and positive regulation of that silencing pathway. It has been linked to the maintenance of shoot apical meristem identity, wax anabolism, and responses to virus and salicylate. The encoded protein localises to the nucleus and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase complex. Phenotypic associations include cuticular wax biosynthesis, antiviral defense and immunity, viral resistance, drought resistance, and resistance to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. It is also linked to decreased salt stress tolerance and leaf morphology changes. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to pathogen defense and virus-derived small interfering RNA biogenesis.