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ZmbZIP39 coordinates source-flow-sink relations to boost grain filling in maize

ABSTRACT: The orchestration of source, flow, and sink is fundamental to efficient grain filling in maize, yet the regulatory network synchronizing these processes remains a major enigma. To identify key regulators, we used the sucrose transporter ZmSUT1, a critical component of the ‘flow’ pathway, as a molecular target. This approach led to the discovery of ZmbZIP39 that acts as a central coordinator of grain filling. We demonstrate that ZmbZIP39 governs the entire process by simultaneously regulating photosynthesis (source), sucrose transport (flow), and sucrose metabolism and nutrient storage (sink). Mechanistically, ZmbZIP39 directly activates the expression of ZmSUT1 and ZmSUT7, facilitating sucrose loading and long-distance transport from leaves to developing kernels. It also promotes sucrose cleavage by directly upregulating three sucrose synthase-encoding genes. Furthermore, ZmbZIP39 directly controls the expression of the zein-encoding genes and endosperm-filling hub Opaque2, thereby driving nutrient storage and endosperm development. ZmbZIP39 also functions within a higher-order regulatory complex, synergizing with key factors like ZmABI19, ZmbZIP29, OHP1, OHP2, and ZmNAC130, to amplify their collective impact. ZmbZIP39-mediated regulatory capacity is further enhanced by its autoactivation activity, creating a positive feedback loop that robustly strengthens its downstream network. Our findings establish ZmbZIP39 as a master regulator that optimizes source-flow-sink relations.¬

ORGANISM(S): Zea Mays

SUBMITTER: Tao Yang

PROVIDER: PXD069873 | iProX | Fri Oct 24 00:00:00 BST 2025

REPOSITORIES: iProX

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ZmbZIP39 coordinates source-flow-sink relations to boost grain filling in maize

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