Stem cell regulation by Arabidopsis WOX genes
Dolzblasz A, Nardmann J, Clerici E, Causier B, van der Graaff E, Chen J, Davies B, Werr W, Laux T.
Mol Plant. 2016;9(7):1028-39.
In the WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX (WOX) gene family, we analyze functional divergence. Members of the WUS clade can substitute for WUS function to different degrees. WUS function requires a canonical WUS-box, whereas the EAR domain is dispensable and the acidic domain seems only to be required for female fertility. Members of the ancient WOX13 and the WOX9 clades cannot support stem cell maintenance. Our results suggest that WUS function is derived and requires yet undiscovered domains.
