PI3K — Cucumis melo

Summary

MELO3C010667.2 (CmPI3K) on melon chromosome 4 encodes a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase of the VPS34/class III type, possessing protein serine/threonine kinase activity and ATP binding. The gene is associated with phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate biosynthesis, macroautophagy, pexophagy, TOR signaling, endocytosis, and phosphoinositide-mediated signaling. It has been linked to responses to salt stress, salicylic acid, and reactive oxygen species, as well as regulation of stomatal closure, DNA damage checkpoint, and microgametogenesis. Associations with ethylene biosynthesis, pollen germination, leaf senescence, proline accumulation, heat stress recovery, root hair growth, and cellular homeostasis have been noted. The encoded protein localizes to endosome membranes, the Golgi complex, and the TOR complex. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to stomatal closure, disease resistance, and plant growth and development.