Maize TOPLESS-RELATED protein RELK2 (RELK2)

Maize TOPLESS-RELATED protein RELK2 (Rootless with Elongated Mesocotyl-Like 2) is a transcriptional corepressor belonging to the TOPLESS (TPL) family in Zea mays [1][3]. It functions as a central hub in plant signaling by interacting with transcription factors that contain the Ethylene-responsive element binding factor-associated Amphiphilic Repression (EAR) motif [3]. By recruiting histone deacetylases (HDACs), RELK2 facilitates chromatin modification and the subsequent repression of genes involved in various developmental processes, including auxin and jasmonate signaling [1][3]. In maize, RELK2 is particularly noted for its role in regulating plant architecture and organ development, such as the branching of the inflorescence and root system morphology [2][3]. While it is not a target for human clinical therapeutics, it represents a vital target for agricultural biotechnology and crop engineering to optimize growth and stress responses [3]. Mutations or alterations in RELK2 expression can lead to significant changes in plant morphology, making it a key focus for improving crop yield [2].

Other names

Rootless with elongated mesocotyl-like 2ZmRELK2TOPLESS-related protein 2Zm00001d013144GRMZM2G114141

Recruitment of histone deacetylases (HDACs) to EAR-motif containing transcription factors to repress gene expression.