Interaction of the Transcription Factors BES1/BZR1 in Plant Growth and Stress Response

Abstract

Bri1-EMS Suppressor 1 (BES1) and Brassinazole Resistant 1 (BZR1) are two key transcription factors in the brassinosteroid (BR) signaling pathway, serving as crucial integrators that connect various signaling pathways in plants. Extensive genetic and biochemical studies have revealed that BES1 and BZR1, along with other protein factors, form a complex interaction network that governs plant growth, development, and stress tolerance. Among the interactome of BES1 and BZR1, several proteins involved in posttranslational modifications play a key role in modifying the stability, abundance, and transcriptional activity of BES1 and BZR1. This review specifically focuses on the functions and regulatory mechanisms of BES1 and BZR1 protein interactors that are not involved in the posttranslational modifications but are crucial in specific growth and development stages and stress responses. By highlighting the significance of the BZR1 and BES1 interactome, this review sheds light on how it optimizes plant growth, development, and stress responses.

Keywords: Brassinazole Resistant 1; Bri1-EMS Suppressor 1; brassinosteroids; interaction; transcription factor.

Figure 1

BES1/BZR1 play a crucial role in regulating various aspects of plant growth, development, and stress resistance. They exert a wide range of effects on different plant parts, including roots, stems, leaves, and flowers, throughout the plant’s life cycle. Initially, they are involved in skotomorphogenesis after seed germination in dark conditions (left panel colored with gray), transitioning to photomorphogenesis as seedlings emerge into the light (left panel colored with blue). Subsequently, they contribute to all stages of plant growth (right panel colored with blue) and play a role in enhancing tolerance to multiple stresses (right panel colored with pink).