RDR1 — Solanum lycopersicum

Summary

SOLYC05G007510.4, designated RDR1, encodes an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) with RNA-binding activity. In tomato, this gene is associated with viral defense, antiviral immunity, and resistance to pathogens including Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Fusarium brachygibbosum. It is linked to viral latency, superinfection exclusion, activation of RNAi, and positive regulation of posttranscriptional gene silencing. Associations extend to traits such as leaf chlorosis, leaf curling, chlorophyll content, sugar content, and plant height. The encoded protein localizes to the nucleus and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase complex. Additional links include herbivore resistance, drought resistance, cuticular wax biosynthesis, and processes spanning oogenesis, spermatogenesis, vision, pigment metabolism, and lycopene anabolism. Studies of related genes in other species link the RDR1 family to virus-derived small interfering RNA biogenesis, salicylic acid response, and pathogen defense.