Stress Regulatory capabilities discovered in late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins expressed during pecan (Carya illinoinensis) kernel development.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pecan (Carya illinoinensis), a major North American tree nut crop, faces yield losses due to abiotic stressors like drought and salinity. Late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins, known for stabilizing cellular components under desiccation, remain uncharacterized in pecans. This study bridges this gap by analysing LEA proteins during kernel development in 'Sumner' and 'Pawnee' cultivars, combining phylogenetic, structural, and functional analyses to elucidate their roles in stress adaptation.

Results

We identified 43 LEA proteins across seven subfamilies, with LEA2 as the largest subgroup (30 members). Phylogenetic analysis revealed strong conservation with Arabidopsis homologs. Structural characterization highlighted hydrophilic properties in LEA4 and dehydrins

SUBMITTER: Pulicherla SR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12482402 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature