PDS1 — Zea mays

Summary

ZM00001EB006300 (ZmPDS1) on maize chromosome 1 encodes a phytoene desaturase with 9,9'-di-cis-zeta-carotene desaturase and phytoene dehydrogenase activities, binding FAD. The gene is associated with carotenoid metabolism, including lutein, astaxanthin, carotene and phytoene anabolism, as well as carotenoid breakdown and the xanthophyll cycle. It has been linked to plastid membrane, chloroplast thylakoid and envelope localisation. Trait associations include lutein, zeaxanthin and carotene content, grain color, leaf color, plant height, grain yield, proline content and vivipary. Phenotypic connections include phytoene desaturation, chlorophyll biosynthesis, albino phenotype, lateral root formation and primary root growth. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to photobleaching, carotenoid content and chlorophyll homeostasis.