AP2 — Lactuca sativa

Summary

LsAP2, an AP2/ERF domain-containing transcription factor encoded on chromosome 9 of garden lettuce, is associated with a wide range of developmental and stress-related processes. The gene product exhibits DNA binding, transcription coactivator and corepressor activities, and blue light photoreceptor activity. LsAP2 is linked to the regulation of floral organ abscission, seed development, endosperm development, seed coat development, and plant epidermal cell fate specification. It has also been connected to starch biosynthesis, nitrogen utilization, jasmonic acid/ethylene-dependent systemic resistance, and the downregulation of innate immune responses. Associations with agronomically relevant traits include seed color, branch angle, plant size, flowering time, male sterility, and responses to aphids, thrips, and various hormones. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to trichome development, mucilage production, drought tolerance, and defense against pathogens and insects.