EP3 — Zea mays

Summary

ZmEP3 (ZM00001EB007850) on maize chromosome 1 encodes a protein with chitinase activity (EC 3.2.1.14), chitin binding and protein binding functions, belonging to the glycosyl hydrolase 19 catalytic domain family. The gene is associated with chitin and polysaccharide breakdown, cell wall macromolecule catabolic processes, tissue remodeling, ear development, shoot regeneration, and ethylene-mediated signaling pathways. It localizes to the apoplast, plant-type cell wall, vacuole, and secretory vesicles. ZmEP3 is linked to grain yield, plant height, stem and ear diameter, root length, lignin and glucose content, heterosis, and ethylene sensitivity. Associations with pathogen resistance, nematode resistance, salt tolerance, and seed germination under salt stress have also been observed. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to disease resistance, jasmonic acid responses, and pollen tube growth.