AtREM1, a member of a new family of B3 domain-containing genes, is preferentially expressed in reproductive meristems

We have isolated and characterized AtREM1, the Arabidopsis ortholog of the cauliflower (Brassica oleracea) BoREM1. AtREM1 belongs to a large gene family of more than 20 members in Arabidopsis. The deduced AtREM1 protein contains several repeats of a B3-related domain, and it could represent a new class of regulatory proteins only found in plants. Expression of AtREM1 is developmentally regulated, being first localized in a few central cells of vegetative apical meristems, and later expanding to the whole inflorescence meristem, as well as primordia and organs of third and fourth floral whorls. This specific expression pattern suggests a role in the organization of reproductive meristems, as well as during flower organ development.