CERK1 — Medicago truncatula

Summary

MTR_2G024260, the barrel medic CERK1 gene on chromosome 2, encodes a transmembrane receptor protein kinase with chitin-binding activity, belonging to the CERK1/LYK3-like family. The gene is associated with nodulation, lateral root development, and root development, as well as response to chitin, innate immune response-activating signaling, cell death, and virus-induced PTGS. It has also been connected to strigolactone anabolism and signal transduction. The encoded protein localises to the plasma membrane and vacuolar lumen. Related genes in other species link the family to receptor-like kinase functions, and the family is associated with serine/threonine protein kinase activity (EC 2.7.11.1).