Heat Shock Protein Helps Maize Plants Resist Drought

Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) are like bodyguards for cells, protecting them from stress. One type of HSP, called DnaJ, is present in plants. Scientists from Hebei Agricultural University studied a specific DnaJ protein called ZmDnaJ in maize.

The researchers found that ZmDnaJ is activated when plants experience drought stress. By activating ZmDnaJ, plants can better cope with drought by closing the stomata, increasing the abscisic acid levels, and regulating photosynthesis.

Scientists also discovered that ZmDnaJ works together with another protein called ZmNCED6 to improve drought tolerance. When ZmNCED6 is more active, plants show stronger resistance to oxidation, enhanced photosynthetic rate, increased ABA content, and enhanced stomatal closure.

Overall, the research suggests that the ZmDnaJ-ZmNCED6 tandem plays a key role in helping maize plants survive drought.

Read more findings in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry.