Functional characterization of OsCAT2 gene in rice that regulates ROS scavenging and plant growth and development

Catalase (CAT) is an essential antioxida existing within nearly every living organism. The present work aimed to identify and functionally characterize OsCAT2 in rice. Expression analysis revealed that OsCAT2 mainly expressed in vegetative tissues, and the transcript levels could be regulated by various abiotic stresses. OsCAT2 prokaryotic expression protein can scavenge H2O2. OsCAT2 CRISPR transgenic plants showed increased tillering, curly or needle leaves covered with yellow lesions, and pollen with partial sterility. Differentially expressed genes within OsCAT2 CRISPR plants were mainly related to ion transport, plant-pathogen interactions and photosynthesis pathways, and genes related to tillering and resistance were significantly changed. We speculate that OsCAT2 may be a key regulator during rice growth and development, in addition to its involvement in H2O2 scavenging.

Automated summary

This study focused on identifying and characterizing the OsCAT2 gene in rice, which plays a crucial role in antioxidant defense. Expression analysis revealed its tissue-specific expression pattern and regulation under abiotic stresses. Functional studies showed that OsCAT2 is involved in H2O2 scavenging. CRISPR gene-edited plants with disrupted OsCAT2 showed altered growth and development, including increased tillering, leaf abnormalities, and partial male sterility. Transcriptomic analysis suggested that OsCAT2 influences multiple biological processes, including ion transport, plant-pathogen interactions, and photosynthesis.