GRF3 — Lactuca sativa

Summary

LsGRF3 (GRF3) on chromosome 8 of garden lettuce encodes a Growth-Regulating Factor (GRF) protein containing QLQ and WRC domains, and functions as a transcription coactivator with ATP and protein binding activities. It localizes to the nucleus and is associated with responses to deep water, cold, and gibberellin, as well as cell population proliferation, cell cycle regulation, root meristem growth, seed development, and adaxial/abaxial pattern specification. The gene is linked to numerous agronomic traits including seed weight, leaf morphology and size, water use efficiency, anthocyanin content, root oxidative activity, and organ identity. It is also connected to phosphate acquisition, resistance to Plum pox virus, and drought tolerance. Studies of related genes in other species link the GRF family to leaf and floral organ development, cell proliferation, stomatal development, and regeneration efficiency.