Work

ZjBZR2, a BES/BZR Transcription Factor from Zoysia japonica, Positively Regulates Leaf Angle and Osmotic Stress Tolerance in Rice

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The BRI1-EMS suppressor/Brassinazole-resistant (BES/BZR) transcription factors (TFs) act as regulators of the Brassinosteroid (BR) signaling pathway and play key roles in modulating plant growth, development, and abiotic stress tolerance. However, the function of BES/BZR TFs remains unknown in warm-season turfgrass species. In this study, ZjBZR2, a BES/BZR TF in Zoysia japonica was identified and shared the closest evolutionary relationship with OsBZR2 from Oryza sativa. ZjBZR2 was a nuclear-localized protein and had transcriptional activation activity. ZjBZR2 was predominantly expressed in roots, stems, and lamina joints, and could be significantly induced by BR treatment and osmotic stresses including PEG and salinity. ZjBZR2-overexpressing rice lines increased leaf angle compared with wild-type plants. Furthermore, overexpression of ZjBZR2 enhanced osmotic stress (PEG and salt) tolerance which is associated with the upregulation of stress-responsive and ROS-scavenging genes. These findings provide the first functional characterization of ZjBZR2 in rice and offer excellent genetic resources for the improvement of turfgrass cultivars.

Source: Agriculture

DOI: 10.3390/agriculture15192091

Authors: Qianqian Zuo, Jingjin Yu, Qiuguo Li, Tian Hao, Zhimin Yang

Institution: Nanjing Agricultural University

Language: English

Topic: Plant Stress Responses and Tolerance

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137