PDS — Cucumis melo

Summary

MELO3C017772.2 (symbol PDS, also known as CmPDS) on melon chromosome 8 encodes a phytoene desaturase, an enzyme with 9,9'-di-cis-zeta-carotene desaturase and phytoene dehydrogenase activities that binds FAD and performs redox reactions. This gene is associated with carotenoid and carotene anabolism, protein homotetramerization, response to herbicide, regeneration, the TCA cycle, and fruit development. Its product localizes to plastid membranes, chloroplast thylakoids and envelopes, the membrane, and cytosol. The gene is linked to respiration rate, ethylene sensitivity, photosynthetic rate, fruit pigmentation, phytoene desaturation, chlorophyll biosynthesis, lateral root formation, and primary root growth. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to carotenoid content, leaf and fruit color, drought tolerance, chilling injury resistance, and insect resistance.