PIP — Solanum tuberosum

Summary

PGSC0003DMG400004980, designated PIP (also known as StPIP1 or PIP1) on potato chromosome 12, encodes a major intrinsic protein 1, a member of the aquaporin family with water channel activity. This gene is associated with defense response and viral resistance in potato, as well as with processes including protein heterotetramerization, sucrose anabolism, starch breakdown, primary root development, root hair cell development, embryogenesis, and syngamy. The encoded protein localizes to the membrane, plasmalemma, ER, and cytosol. PIP has been connected to net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, water use efficiency, stomatal resistance, drought tolerance, water stress response, salt tolerance, and plant growth. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to traits such as leaf water potential, relative water content, chlorophyll content, fruit size, and germination rate.