Data Sheet 1_PpLEA genes in embryophytes,instead of LEAs being angiosperm-unique.pdf

While a majority of PpLEA genes consistently expressed across gametophyte-to-sporophyte transition, indicating their putative role linking vegetative and reproductive development. Only one single PpLEA gene showing differential transcriptional expression during the gametophyte to sporophyte transition is activated at this developmental onset and maintains the expression thereafter, suggesting its unique and non-redundant function linking vegetative and reproductive developmental stages.

In addition, P. patens biosynthesize distinct LEA proteins in response to drought, chilling or abscisic acid (ABA) and the other abiotic stimulus. Therefore, the roles of PpLEAs can be further exploited in multifaceted ways. These findings shed light on the linkage between abiotic stress responses and plant development processes, particularly the transition from vegetative growth to reproductive development.</p>