Analysis of weighted co-regulatory networks in maize provides insights into new genes and regulatory mechanisms related to inositol phosphate metabolism

Sub-network 1 and 2 of “magenta2”, node annotation. (XLSX 10 kb

The update of treatment strategies in pediatrics with generalized pustular psoriasis in China

ABSTRACT Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a severe subtype of psoriasis, commonly combined with systemic inflammation. Gene mutations have been found to be associated with GPP and vary by ethnicity. Systemic treatments are usually required for the severity and potential complications of GPP. However, there is no common consensus in China, especially among pediatric patients, whose data are scarce. Acitretin, methotrexate, and cyclosporine are widely used in pediatrics with GPP, while the adverse effects should be highlighted. The emergence of different biological agents brings us into a new era. This article discusses the genetic background of Chinese patients and demonstrates the evidence of treatment in pediatrics with GPP

Overexpression of <i>ZmIRT1</i> and <i>ZmZIP3</i> Enhances Iron and Zinc Accumulation in Transgenic <i>Arabidopsis</i>

<div><p>Iron and zinc are important micronutrients for both the growth and nutrient availability of crop plants, and their absorption is tightly controlled by a metal uptake system. Zinc-regulated transporters, iron-regulated transporter-like proteins (ZIP), is considered an essential metal transporter for the acquisition of Fe and Zn in graminaceous plants. Several ZIPs have been identified in maize, although their physiological function remains unclear. In this report, <i>ZmIRT1</i> was shown to be specifically expressed in silk and embryo, whereas <i>ZmZIP3</i> was a leaf-specific gene. Both ZmIRT1 and ZmZIP3 were shown to be localized to the plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, transgenic <i>Arabidopsis</i> plants overexpressing <i>ZmIRT1</i> or <i>ZmZIP3</i> were generated, and the metal contents in various tissues of transgenic and wild-type plants were examined based on ICP-OES and Zinpyr-1 staining. The Fe and Zn concentration increased in roots and seeds of <i>ZmIRT1</i>-overexpressing plants, while the Fe content in shoots decreased. Overexpressing <i>ZmZIP3</i> enhanced Zn accumulation in the roots of transgenic plants, while that in shoots was repressed. In addition, the transgenic plants showed altered tolerance to various Fe and Zn conditions compared with wild-type plants. Furthermore, the genes associated with metal uptake were stimulated in <i>ZmIRT1</i> transgenic plants, while those involved in intra- and inter- cellular translocation were suppressed. In conclusion, ZmIRT1 and ZmZIP3 are functional metal transporters with different ion selectivities. Ectopic overexpression of <i>ZmIRT1</i> may stimulate endogenous Fe uptake mechanisms, which may facilitate metal uptake and homeostasis. Our results increase our understanding of the functions of ZIP family transporters in maize.</p></div

A comprehensive proteomic analysis of elaioplasts from citrus fruits reveals insights into elaioplast biogenesis and function

Citrus fruits: The proteins of elaioplasts A study of the proteins in bodies called elaioplasts in citrus fruit cells will help to clarify elaioplast formation and functions. Plant cells contain several types of membrane-bound bodies called plastids, with elaioplasts being an incompletely characterized type. They are known to store oils in the cells, especially molecules called terpenes that influence the fragrances and flavors of citrus fruits. Researchers in China, led by Yunliu Zeng at Huazhong Agricultural University, analyzed the protein molecules in elaioplasts of kumquat peel to investigate possible roles for elaioplasts other than oil storage. They identified more than 600 proteins and assigned likely functions to many. The results suggest the proteins are involved in chemical energy transactions and the manufacture of various categories of biomolecules. This will guide research to fully characterize the activities and significance of elaioplasts

Expression of genes involved in metal uptake and translocation in wild-type (WT) and <i>ZmIRT1</i>-overexpressing lines (OX9, OX10, and OX56).

<p>RNA of wild-type and transgenic plants was prepared from 13 d old seedlings grown on standard MS medium. Relative mRNA abundance of each gene was normalised to that of <i>AtUBP6</i>. Data from quantitative RT-PCR were analyzed following the 2^-ΔΔCt method. Error bars indicate standard deviations.</p