RDR1 — Cucumis sativus

Summary

CsRDR1 (CSA_5G544050) on cucumber chromosome 5 encodes an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase with RdRP activity (EC 2.7.7.48) and RNA binding capacity. The gene is associated with posttranscriptional gene silencing, siRNA processing, and maintenance of shoot apical meristem identity. It has been linked to wax and phenylpropanoid anabolism, response to salicylate, and hypersensitivity. Localisation evidence places the product in the nucleus and the RDRC complex. Phenotypically, CsRDR1 is connected to cuticular wax biosynthesis, antiviral defense and immunity, viral resistance, and resistance to the fungal pathogens Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Fusarium brachygibbosum, as well as herbivore and drought resistance. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to virus-derived small interfering RNA biogenesis, salicylic acid response, and resistance to multiple pathogens and insects.