Protein stability evaluation of transcription factor AtbZIP63 in biotic/abiotic stress responses and the role of this gene in resistance of Arabidopsis thaliana to Pseudomonas syringae pv tomato strain DC3000

Abstract

In the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, the mRNA accumulation of AtbZIP63 transcription factor is regulated by daily fluctuations of sugars, absicisic acid (ABA), circadian clock and pathogen infection. In agreement with these data, the functional classification of 280 misregulated genes in atbzip63-1 mutant suggest that AtbZIP63 is directly or indirectly involved in regulation of genes related to energy starvation, abiotic and biotic stresses, probably modulating the energy use in response to environmental challenges. To extend the knowledge about AtbZIP63 role, we perform the search for AtbZIP63 interacting proteins using the Yeast-two hybrid (Y2H) approach, and the results had shown an enrichment of protein degradation related genes. Moreover, preliminary analysis showed that atbzip63-1 mutant is more resistant to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) strain DC3000. This research project aims to establish the mechanisms of AtbZIP63 protein stability in response to energy deprivation and biotic and abiotic stresses. In a second step, elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which AtbZIP63 operates in plant defense against Pst DC3000 in collaboration with Dr. Maeli Melotto of University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). (AU)