Source: Genetic information comes from the article
Functional Descriptions
The Maize ZmSMU2 Gene Encodes a Putative RNA-Splicing Factor That Affects Protein Synthesis and RNA Processing during Endosperm Development.
In addition to having a starchy endosperm with reduced levels of zein storage proteins, homozygous ZmSMU2-1 mutants manifest a number of phenotypes, including defective meristem development.
The ZmSMU2 mutants have poor seedling viability and surviving plants are sterile. The gene encoding ZmSMU2 is expressed in the endosperm, embryo, and shoot apex, which explains the pleiotropic nature of the mutation.
Based on the pleiotropic nature of the mutations and the known function of animal ZmSMU2 homologs, we propose a possible role for ZmSMU2 in the development of maize endosperm, as well as a mechanism by which misregulation of ZmSMU2 causes the mutant phenotypes.
