P — Zea mays

Summary

ZM00001EB014280 (P1) on maize chromosome 1 encodes a MYB transcription factor with DNA-binding and cis-regulatory region binding activity. The gene is associated with pigment accumulation, including phlobaphene biosynthesis, as well as floral organ pigmentation. It has been linked to pericarp color and morphology, flavonoid and anthocyanin content, and plant color traits. P1 is also associated with defense responses, including upregulation of phytoalexin biosynthesis and resistance to corn earworm and corn leaf aphid. Additional associations include regulation of lignin anabolism, stress response, and flowering time. The protein localizes to the nucleus. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to grain size, seed traits, drought tolerance, and heat tolerance, though these are not established for maize P1 itself.