EP3 — Zea mays

Summary

ZM00001EB332350 (ZmEP3, also known as ZmPR-3) on maize chromosome 8 encodes a chitinase with chitinase activity (EC 3.2.1.14) and chitin binding, belonging to the Glyco_hydro_19 family. The enzyme is associated with chitin breakdown, cell wall macromolecule catabolic processes, polysaccharide breakdown, and induced systemic resistance. It has been linked to ear development, shoot regeneration, tissue remodeling, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis, as well as nitrogen fixation, fermentation, and biofilm formation. Localization evidence connects the protein to the vacuole and extracellular space. Trait associations include grain yield, plant height, stem and ear diameter, root length, lignin and glucose content, insect damage, and heterosis. Studies of related genes in other species further link the family to defense and developmental processes.