AAT — Cucumis melo

Summary

MELO3C017998.2 (symbol AAT, preferred name CmAAT) on melon chromosome 8 encodes a pyridoxal phosphate-dependent aminotransferase with multiple annotated activities, including LL-diaminopimelate, nicotianamine, and prephenate aminotransferase activities, as well as 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase activity. The gene is associated with amino acid metabolism, particularly L-phenylalanine anabolism, tyrosine breakdown, and ethylene anabolism. It is linked to fruit ripening, embryo development ending in seed dormancy, and systemic acquired resistance via salicylic acid-mediated signaling. Localisation evidence links the product to the amyloplast membrane and chloroplast stroma. Phenotype associations include aromatic amino acid biosynthesis and parthenocarpic fruit development. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to carotenoid and chlorophyll content, root morphology, and nitrogen metabolism.