RSL4 — Triticum aestivum

Summary

TRAESCS2A02G194200, designated TaRSL4 (also known as TaRSL5, TaBHLH128-2A), encodes a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor on wheat chromosome 2A. The protein localises to the nucleus and exhibits RNA polymerase II-specific DNA-binding and transcription factor activity. TaRSL4 is associated with root hair initiation and development, root hair growth and length, root volume, and root length. It is linked to regulation of seed size, shoot fresh weight and biomass, internode patterning, and regulation of flowering under both short-day and long-day photoperiods. The gene is associated with responses to auxin and brassinosteroid signalling, red/far-red light signalling, and negative regulation of the phytochrome signalling pathway. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to root hair elongation and formation, as well as seedling vigor, root hair density, and phosphorus uptake.