ERF1 — Capsicum annuum

Summary

CaERF1 (T459_29247) on pepper chromosome 12 encodes a protein with an AP2/ERF domain, possessing DNA-binding and transcription coactivator activity. It is associated with the regulation of ethylene and jasmonic acid signaling pathways, fruit ripening, and responses to drought, salinity, and osmotic stress. The gene is linked to trichome papilla formation and branching, flower development, red and far-red light phototransduction, and nitric oxide storage. It localizes to the nucleus and the mediator complex. CaERF1 has been connected to traits including fruit length and weight, plant height, flowering time, seed viability, photosynthetic rate, flavonoid content, disease tolerance, and heterosis. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to defense responses, ethylene signaling, and resistance to necrotrophic pathogens such as Botrytis cinerea.