ZDS — Cucumis melo

Summary

MELO3C024674.2 (symbol ZDS, also known as CmZDS) on melon chromosome 3 encodes a zeta-carotene desaturase, a FAD-binding oxidoreductase with 9,9'-di-cis-zeta-carotene desaturase and phytoene dehydrogenase activities. The enzyme is associated with carotenoid and lycopene anabolism, carotene metabolism, fruit development, and the TCA cycle. It localises to the chloroplast thylakoid and envelope membranes. The gene has been connected to fruit color, carotenoid and carotene content, and respiration rate. It is also linked to leaf and chloroplast development, retrograde signalling, abscisic acid biosynthesis, photoprotection, and plant growth. Related genes in other species link the family to carotenoid accumulation, lycopene content, and antioxidant metabolism.