ZDS — Capsicum annuum

Summary

CaZDS (T459_22248) on pepper chromosome 8 encodes a zeta-carotene desaturase with 9,9'-di-cis-zeta-carotene desaturase and phytoene dehydrogenase activities, belonging to the zeta-carotene desaturase/oxidoreductase family and binding FAD. The gene is associated with carotenoid, carotene and lycopene anabolism, carotenoid metabolism, chlorophyll breakdown, fruit ripening, leaf formation and development, protein homotetramerization, and NO storage. It localizes to the plastid membrane, chloroplast thylakoid and envelope. CaZDS is linked to carotenoid and chlorophyll content, respiration rate, retrograde signalling, abscisic acid biosynthesis, chloroplast development, photoprotection, and plant growth and development. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to traits including fruit color and firmness, leaf color, plant height, drought tolerance, and lycopene accumulation.