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NAL1 forms a molecular cage to regulate FZP phase separation.
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 122(15):e2419961122.
NARROW LEAF 1 (NAL1), originally identified for its role in shaping leafmorphology, plant architecture, and various agronomic traits in rice, hasremained enigmatic in terms of the molecular mechanisms governing itsmultifaceted functions. In this study, we present a comprehensive structuralanalysis of NAL1 proteins, shedding light on how NAL1 regulates the phaseseparation of its physiological substrate, FRIZZY PANICLE (FZP), a transcriptionfactor. We determined that NAL1 assembles as a hexamer and forms a molecular cagewith a wide central channel and three narrower lateral channels, which coulddiscriminate its different substrates into the catalytic sites. Most notably, ourinvestigation unveils that FZP readily forms molecular condensates via phaseseparation both in vitro and in vivo. NAL1 fine-tunes FZP condensation,maintaining optimal concentrations to enhance transcriptional activity. Whilephase separation roles include sequestration and suppression of transcriptionalor enzymatic activity, our study highlights its context-dependent contribution totranscriptional regulation. NAL1 assumes a pivotal role in regulating the statesof these molecular condensates through its proteolytic activity, subsequentlyenhancing transcriptional cascades. Our findings offer insights intocomprehending the molecular mechanisms underpinning NAL1's diverse functions,with far-reaching implications for the field of plant biology. Additionally,these insights provide valuable guidance for the development of rational breedingstrategies aimed at enhancing crop productivity.
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