Genome-Wide Characterization of the DELLA Gene Family in Hevea brasiliensis Reveals Evolutionary Diversification and Potential HbDELLA3/4–HbbHLH25 Interaction
TL;DR
Members of the HbDELLA protein family in the rubber tree genome are identified and their evolutionary relationships, conserved motifs, domain organization, chromosomal distribution, collinearity, expression patterns, and protein interactions are examined.
Abstract
Simple Summary DELLA proteins act as brakes that slow down plant growth when they are present. In rubber trees, the main source of natural rubber, scientists studied these proteins to understand how they work. Five DELLA proteins were found in the rubber tree genome. The researchers traced their evolutionary history and found that these proteins shared similar core structures but had some differences in their outer parts. Two specific proteins, called HbDELLA3 and HbDELLA4, could interact with a partner protein, HbbHLH25, which is located in the cell nucleus. This candidate interaction may help control how the plant grows and responds to gibberellin, a growth hormone. The scientists also showed that these DELLA proteins are active in different parts of the plant at different times. This study helps explain how rubber tree growth and development are regulated at the molecular level. Understanding this could lead to better ways for improving rubber yield and plant health, which is important for the natural rubber industry that produces materials used in tires, medical gloves, and many other everyday products.