PSY — Triticum turgidum subsp. durum

Summary

TRITD5AV1G193290 (TtPSY) encodes a phytoene synthase, an enzyme with farnesyltranstransferase and squalene synthase activity (EC 2.5.1.32) that belongs to the isoprenoid synthase domain superfamily. In durum wheat chromosome 5A, this gene is associated with carotenoid anabolism and pigment accumulation, as well as pigment breakdown. It has been linked to grain traits including test weight, grain protein content, grains per spike, grain number, grain size, grain weight, and ash content, along with zeaxanthin and carotenoid content. The encoded protein localizes to the chloroplast membrane and chromoplast stroma. TtPSY is also associated with drought stress response. Studies of related genes in other species link the phytoene synthase family to abscisic acid accumulation, carotenoid accumulation, drought and salt tolerance, root color, and seed germination.