CAS — Triticum aestivum

Summary

TRAESCS3B02G102500 (TaCAS) on wheat chromosome 3B encodes a pyridoxal phosphate-binding enzyme with cysteine synthase and beta-cyanoalanine synthase activities. The gene is associated with cysteine homeostasis, cyanide metabolism and detoxification, sulfate transport, and regulation of superoxide and hydrogen peroxide metabolism. TaCAS has been linked to sulfur content and sensitivity, cell membrane stability, photosynthetic rate, root and seedling development, and responses to stem rust and stripe rust. It is associated with leaf senescence, fruit ripening, pollen tube development, root hair cell development, and photoacclimation. The encoded protein localizes to chloroplasts, thylakoid lumen, and other cellular compartments. Studies of related genes in other species associate the family with hydrogen sulfide production, drought resistance, stomatal closure, root hair elongation, and seed germination.