Function of Gene OsASIE1 in Response to Abiotic Stress in Rice

AP2/EREBP transcription factors play an important role in plant development, hormone response, and responses to biotic and abiotic stress. OsASIE1, a member of the EREBP subfamily of AP2/EREBP transcription factors in rice (Oryza sativa L.), is determined to be involved in abiotic stress response. OsASIE1 expression was induced by drought and salt stresses. In addition, an electrophoresis mobility shift assay (EMSA) revealed that the AP2 domain of the OsASIE1 protein can bind to both DRE (dehydration-responsive element) and GCC box (ethylene response element, ERE) in vitro. All these results indicate that OsASIE1 may participate in abiotic stress response by regulating the expression of downstream genes with DRE and GCC box binding. Overexpression of OsASIE1 in transgenic rice plants might be used to improve tolerance to salt stress.