OsLPR3 Mutation Improves Tolerance to Phosphate Starvation in Rice

Researchers from Nanjing Agricultural University and partners reported that mutation of OsLPR3 improves tolerance to phosphate starvation in rice. Their findings are reported in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Low Phosphate Root (LPR) codes for a protein in the endoplasmic reticulum and cell wall. It has a vital role in plant's reaction to phosphate (Pi) deprivation, particularly in modifying the root system architecture. Previous studies have shown that OsLPR5, functioning in Pi uptake and translocation, is necessary for the normal growth and development of rice. However, the role of OsLPR3 in response to Pi deficiency and/or in the regulation of plant growth and development was still unclear. This led the researchers to investigate the function of OsLPR3 in the biological processes mentioned.

The results of the study showed that some functions were found to differ between OsLPR3 and OsLPR5. OsLPR3 was induced in the leaf blades, leaf sheaths, and roots under Pi deprivation. OsLPR3 overexpression strongly inhibited the growth and development of the rice, but did not affect the Pi homeostasis of the plant. However, oslpr3 mutants improved root system architecture and Pi utilization, and they exhibited higher tolerance to low Pi stress in rice.

Based on the findings, the researchers concluded that OsLPR3 performs a different role from OsLPR5 during plant growth and development, as well as in the maintenance of the Pi status of rice.

Find more results in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.