WOX2 — Lactuca sativa

Summary

LsWOX2, the garden lettuce gene on chromosome 8, encodes a WUSCHEL-like homeobox transcription factor with DNA binding, protein homodimerization, and identical protein binding activities. It localizes to both the nucleus and cytoplasm. This gene is associated with embryonic pattern specification, apical cell fate commitment, cotyledon boundary formation, axillary shoot meristem initiation, and vascular tissue pattern formation. It is linked to seed, leaf, and flower development, as well as jasmonic acid signaling and brassinosteroid sensitivity. Associations also include shoot apical meristem development, plant regeneration, stem cell initiation, and organ separation. Related genes in other species link the WOX2 family to embryonic pattern formation and apical cell fate determination.