WRKY70 — Phaseolus vulgaris

Summary

PHAVU_008G081800, designated PvWRKY70 on chromosome 8 of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), encodes a WRKY domain-containing transcription factor with sequence-specific DNA binding and protein homodimerization activities. This nuclear and cytoplasmic protein is associated with the positive regulation of salicylic acid-mediated signaling and systemic acquired resistance, as well as the negative regulation of leaf senescence and response to water deprivation. PvWRKY70 is linked to defense responses against nematodes and insects, floral organ senescence, abscisic acid-mediated stomatal movement, and the regulation of brassinosteroid and ethylene signaling pathways. The gene is also associated with triterpenoid, camalexin, and indole glucosinolate biosynthesis. Associations with agronomically relevant traits include responses to high temperature, oxidative stress, submergence, salt stress, and leaf senescence, alongside plant growth and biomass traits. Studies of related genes in other species further connect it to resistance against necrotrophic pathogens such as Botrytis and Rhizoctonia, as well as drought, heat, and salinity tolerance.