Figure 8.

Working model for OsERS1 function in rice anthers. In rice anthers, L2-d cells generate somatic endothecium, middle layer, tapetum, and germinal sporogenous cells. OsERS1 is expressed specifically in L2-d cells at high levels during stage 2 to 3 and later in cells differentiated from L2-d cells. In the wild type (WT), OsERS1 combined with OsARC are required for protein synthesis and to maintain L2-d cell number and patterning during early anther development. Loss of function of OsERS1 resulted in the accumulation of free Glu and changes in amino acids and their derived metabolic pathways. Subsequently, ROS produced by metabolic activities affected redox status and cell behavior, leading to changes in anther development. E, Epidermis; En, endothecium; eSp, excess sporogenous-like cell; ML, middle layer; Sp, sporogenous cell; T, tapetum; TCA, tricarboxylic acid.