VP14 — Zea mays

Summary

ZM00001EB051890, also known as VP14, is a maize gene on chromosome 1 that encodes a carotenoid oxygenase family protein with carotenoid dioxygenase activity and 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase activity, acting as an oxidoreductase incorporating two oxygen atoms and binding metal ions. VP14 is associated with abscisic acid biosynthesis, carotene breakdown, and the metabolism of lycopene, beta-carotene, xanthophylls, and anthocyanins. It is linked to seed maturation, endosperm and anther development, meristem development, stomatal closure, fruit ripening, and responses to gibberellin and salicylate. The protein localizes to the chloroplast thylakoid membrane and stroma. Additionally, VP14 is associated with grain color and stomatal resistance traits. Related genes in other species connect this gene family to 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase activity (EC 1.13.11.51).