eg2 — Capsicum annuum

Summary

The pepper gene eg2 (T459_00030) on chromosome 1 encodes an endoglucanase (EC 3.2.1.4) with cellulase activity, belonging to the glycosyl hydrolase 9 family. This extracellular enzyme is associated with cellulose breakdown, cell wall organization, abscission, fruit development, and fruit ripening. It has also been linked to interphase and NO storage. Additionally, eg2 is associated with carotenoid content. Studies of related genes in other species connect the endoglucanase family to similar cell wall remodeling functions, though these specific associations are not yet established for pepper.