Possible crosstalk between the Arabidopsis TSPO-related protein and the transcription factor WRINKLED1

Abstract

This study uncovers a regulatory interplay between WRINKLED1 (WRI1), a master transcription factor for glycolysis and lipid biosynthesis, and Translocator Protein (TSPO) expression in Arabidopsis thaliana seeds. We identified potential WRI1-responsive elements upstream of AtTSPO through bioinformatics, suggesting WRI1's involvement in regulating TSPO expression. Our analyses showed a significant reduction in AtTSPO levels in wri1 mutant seeds compared to wild type, establishing a functional link between WRI1 and TSPO. This connection extends to the coordination of seed development and lipid metabolism, with both WRI1 and AtTSPO levels decreasing post-imbibition, indicating their roles in seed physiology. Further investigations into TSPO's impact on fatty acid synthesis revealed that TSPO misexpression alters WRI1's post-translational modifications and significantly enhances seed oil content. Additionally, we noted a decrease in key reserve proteins, including 12 S globulin and oleosin 1, in seeds with TSPO misexpression, suggesting a novel energy storage strategy in these lines. Our findings reveal a sophisticated network involving WRI1 and AtTSPO, highlighting their crucial contributions to seed development, lipid metabolism, and the modulation of energy storage mechanisms in Arabidopsis.